The valedictory 2016 Batard-Montrachet Grand Cru was whittled down to just one (new) feuillette this year, equating to 70 magnums that will be bottled. Although the nose is marked by the new oak, there is sufficient fruit to support that and there are some lovely white flower scents that blossom with aeration. The palate is well balanced with a lively, spicy, white pepper, almost garrigue-tinged entry, great depth, not enormous length but impressive harmony given how difficult it is to mature a single feuillette. This will be the last vintage for a number of years as the vines were pulled up following the harvest. It is a fine way to bow out.

The 2015 Batard-Montrachet Grand Cru amounts to two and a half barrels this year. If you think that is small, then Sabine informed me that there is just a feuillette for 2016. After that, Sophie told me that she will replant the parcel of 80-year-old vines. A mote of reduction shook off easily with aeration, revealing a composed bouquet of wet limestone, red and green apple and a faint whiff of almond. The palate is fresh and vibrant on the entry with admirable depth, the oak neatly integrated and allowing the terroir to come through. The acidity is well judged and it gradually builds towards the finish, a tang of bitter lemon on the aftertaste. Give this 2-3 years in bottle and you will have a fine Batard-Montrachet.