Olivier Leflaive Puligny Montrachet 2018
Olivier Leflaive · Puligny-Montrachet, Burgundy, France
At a glance
- Producer
- Olivier Leflaive
- Region
- Puligny-Montrachet, Burgundy, France
- Grape variety
- Chardonnay
- Wine type
- White
- Body
- Medium-bodied and Earthy
- Sweetness
- Dry
- Typical price
- $90-$130
Tasting profile
Crisp citrus, green apple, white flowers, mineral flintiness, subtle oak influence
Evolution: Develops richer notes of honey, almond, toasted hazelnut, and brioche over 5-10 years
At peak: Complex layers of orchard fruit, lingering minerality, balanced richness, and elegant texture
Structure
- Acidity
- High acidity, typical of Puligny-Montrachet
- Tannins
- N/A – white wine
- Alcohol
- 13-13.5%
- Aging potential
- 15-20+ years with proper cellaring
Drinking window
- Peak drinking
- 2027 to 2043
- Optimal window
- 2023 to 2046
- Current status
- Emerging from infancy
- Current condition
- Young, primary fruit dominant with notable freshness and minerality.
The 2018 vintage was excellent in Burgundy, yielding balanced wines with strong acidity and depth. Olivier Leflaive’s Puligny Montrachet benefits from its fine terroir and winemaking precision, allowing longevity and gradual development of tertiary aromas and flavors. The recommended drinking window reflects both the vintage’s potential and the producer’s track record.
Food pairing
Pairs excellently with seafood (lobster, scallops), white truffle dishes, poultry with cream sauces, and mild soft cheeses.
Serving
- Serving temperature
- 12-14°C / 54-57°F
- Decant
- Not required
Sustainability
Sustainability score: 7/10
Olivier Leflaive employs careful vineyard management with attention to soil health, limited chemical use, and water conservation. Use of natural yeasts and minimal intervention in winemaking is standard. Sustainable initiatives include energy-efficient winery practices and lightweight bottle packaging to reduce environmental impact.
While not certified organic or biodynamic, Olivier Leflaive is committed to sustainable viticulture and environmentally conscious production methods. The combination of mature vineyard management, reduced chemical inputs, and eco-friendly winery protocols contributes to a relatively strong sustainability profile for a Burgundy producer.