Domaine Fernand and Laurent Pillot
Domaine Fernand and Laurent Pillot
Domaine Fernand and Laurent Pillot comprises just 15 hectares of vines located primarily in Chassagne-Montrachet. In addition to the vines in Chassagne the domaine has holdings in Pommard and Volnay as a result of of the marriage of Laurent to Marie-Anne.
Domaine Fernand and Laurent Pillot is a traditionally run domaine that specializes in whites although today Laurent acknowledges the domaine has a high proportion of red appellations which he works with the same zeal.
The Domaine is included in Remington Norman’s tome “The Great Domaines of Burgundy”. Norman says “The cream of the cellar is undoubtedly the splendid range of Chassagnes. Lightest of the premier crus is Vergers, a crisp fresh wine for a vineyard with little soil and hard rock underneath. In such an extended, diverse vineyard as Morgeot, location has an important bearing on quality. Laurent has plots in Petit Clos and Fairendes, both with relatively fine soils, in contrast to the heavier, richer ground of low-lying sectors. The wines in Petit Clos give a wine of richness but also vivacity whereas the older plants in Fairendes contribute depth and finesse. Denser and richer is Vide-Bourse, a tiny premier cru adjoining Batard-Montrachet, which gives a fine wine, a little more backward when young but with excellent ageing potential. Noblest of all is the Grandes Ruchottes. To Laurent’s surprise, every year, whatever the weather conditions, the vines give little bunches of s,mall berries. The wine is ripe and powerful with mouth-filling substance and considerable length, yet greater finesse than the other premier crus. It essence, this is Laurent’s grand cru and a worthy testament to his skill.
