Only 200 liters of the 1999 Batard-Montrachet were produced, therefore Montagnon had to commission an off-sized oak barrel from his cooper, Francois Freres. The wine bursts from the glass with toasty oak and smoked bacon aromas. This cream, oak, and mineral-flavored wine has outstanding depth and richness. I remain concerned about the aggressive wood in this wine's aromatics and flavors, but the finish is long and impressive. Drink it over the next 6-7 years. Importer: Robert Kacher Selections, Washington, DC; tel (202) 832-9083.