The 2009 Saint-Aubin 1er Cru Les Murgers des Dents de Chien from Domaine Jean-Claude Bachelet is a White Burgundy crafted from 100% Chardonnay, sourced from the prestigious Les Murgers des Dents de Chien vineyard in Saint-Aubin, Côte de Beaune. This south-facing, high-altitude (300 meters) premier cru vineyard, adjacent to Puligny-Montrachet, is characterized by thin, limestone-rich, stony soils, with “dog-tooth” shaped rocks that give the site its name. The wine offers a complex bouquet of white peach, pear, citrus, and floral notes (acacia and white flowers), with hints of eucalyptus and chalky minerality. On the palate, it is vibrant, intense, and saline, with a well-balanced structure, juicy fruit, and a long, mineral-driven finish. The Bachelet brothers (Benoît and Jean-Baptiste) use long, gentle pressing, indigenous yeast fermentation, and extended élevage (18 months on lees in French oak barrels) to produce a wine of precision and terroir expression.

Food Pairings

This wine’s vibrant acidity and mineral complexity make it an excellent match for refined dishes, including:

• Grilled Sea Bass (Bar Grillé): The wine’s saline and citrus notes enhance the fish’s delicate flavors.

• Guinea Fowl Paupiettes (Paupiettes de Pintade): The wine’s richness complements the savory, tender poultry.

• Tagliatelle with Scallops (Tagliatelles aux Saint-Jacques): The creamy texture and minerality pair beautifully with seafood pasta.

• Soft Cheeses (e.g., Camembert or Brie): The wine’s acidity cuts through the richness of creamy cheeses.

Critics Reviews

• Neal Martin, Vinous (on later vintages, e.g., 2019): Describes Les Murgers des Dents de Chien as having a “wonderful bouquet with beautifully defined mineral-rich fruit, traces of white peach and melon and crushed pebbles,” noting its saline, long aftertaste. The 2009 vintage, while not specifically reviewed, is likely similarly structured given the vineyard’s consistency.

• General Context: The 2009 vintage in Burgundy produced rich, ripe white wines due to a warm growing season, yet Saint-Aubin’s cooler microclimate and high-altitude vineyards like Les Murgers des Dents de Chien retained balancing acidity. Critics praise Bachelet’s wines for their understated character, balance, and medium-term aging potential, with this premier cru often compared to Puligny-Montrachet for its sophistication.

Drink Window

The 2009 Saint-Aubin 1er Cru Les Murgers des Dents de Chien is likely at or past its peak, with a recommended drink window of 2012–2022. Well-stored bottles may still offer pleasure, with evolved notes of honey and nuts, but should be consumed soon to enjoy its full expression.

Serving Temperature

Serve at 10–12°C (50–53.6°F) to highlight the wine’s fresh, floral aromas and crisp minerality without muting its complexity.