2020 Jean-Michel Gaunoux Meursault 1er Cru Les Genevrieres
Domaine Jean-Michel Gaunoux
Jean-Michel Gaunoux established his eponymous domaine in 1990 after working alongside his father at the historic family estate, Domaine François Gaunoux. Operating out of Meursault, he manages exceptional, highly coveted premier cru parcels, particularly in Charmes, Genevrières, and Gouttes d'Or. Gaunoux’s viticulture is rooted in sustainable (lutte raisonnée) practices, and his winemaking philosophy is deeply traditional and patient. He typically utilizes a modest percentage of new oak (15% to 30%) and avoids excessive bâtonnage (lees stirring), preferring to let the wines develop their natural richness, tension, and complexity over extended cellaring. His expressions of Meursault are celebrated for their dense concentration, classic aromatic profiles, and remarkable aging potential offering quintessential white Burgundy that balances opulence with refined mineral drive.
Jean-Michel Gaunoux Meursault 1er Cru Les Genevrières 2020
Situated just north of Charmes, the "Les Genevrières" premier cru is defined by its iron-rich clay and limestone soils. It is traditionally regarded as the more elegant, spicy, and mineral-driven counterpart to the richness of Charmes. Gaunoux’s 2020 Genevrières is a masterclass in finesse, exhibiting a tightly coiled structure and crystalline focus. The lack of heavy lees stirring allows the site's natural floral lift and precise, stony minerality to shine through, resulting in a sophisticated wine of significant depth and tension.
Appellation: Meursault 1er Cru Les Genevrières
Vintage: 2020
Format: 0.75L
Alcohol Content: 13.5%
Grape Variety: 100% Chardonnay
Aging: 15 to 16 months in French oak barrels (15% to 30% new oak).
Vinification: Traditional Burgundian vinification; direct pneumatic pressing; fermentation in barrel using indigenous yeasts; full malolactic fermentation. Minimal to no bâtonnage to preserve freshness and enhance aging potential.
Tasting Notes: Highly elegant and focused, opening with aromas of white flowers, crushed stones, citrus oil, and a hint of exotic spice. The palate is athletic and precise, delivering a core of energetic citrus and orchard fruit that drives toward a tense, mouthwatering, and highly mineral finish.
Food Pairing: Seared scallops with a citrus-butter emulsion, classic sole meunière, or a delicate goat cheese tart.
Historical Ratings
2019: 91–93 pts (Neal Martin, Vinous)