A Game of Vineyards

At times, this story of the Montrachet vineyards could almost be mistaken for a plot from A Game of Thrones. Perhaps George R. R. Martin drew inspiration from the myths of Burgundy; perhaps the region simply has enough noble names, challengers and legends to rival any fantasy saga.

The Grand Cru vineyards of Montrachet produce some of the most prestigious white wines in the world. Together, they account for five of Burgundy’s 33 Grand Cru appellations and lie across the neighbouring villages of Puligny-Montrachet and Chassagne-Montrachet.

Their origins reach back to the Middle Ages and, according to Burgundian folklore, begin with the story of Lord Montrachet.

Before leaving to fight in the Crusades, he entrusted the protection of his daughter, Pucelles, to a knight “Chevalier”. As the tale goes, Pucelles and the knight fell in love and had an illegitimate child, “Bâtard”. When Lord Montrachet returned, he welcomed the child into the family “Bienvenues” and cried out with joy: “Criots”.

The story provides a memorable way to link the five Montrachet Grand Crus:

• Montrachet
• Chevalier-Montrachet
• Bâtard-Montrachet
• Bienvenues-Bâtard-Montrachet
• Criots-Bâtard-Montrachet

There are many versions of this legend, but the basic story is much the same. Of course, if folklore is not your preferred explanation, the name may have a more practical origin: Montrachet is often translated as “bald mountain”, a reference to the local landscape.

Understanding Burgundy’s vineyards can feel like a complex puzzle. We are therefore very grateful to the experts who dedicate their time to studying the region and sharing their findings through books and websites, giving the rest of us the chance to explore it at our own pace. If, like me, you are interested in wine, enjoy drinking it, and feel you have the basics in place, Burgundy quickly draws you into a maze of vineyards, producers and the history behind it. My job has only deepened that curiosity.

Auction Details

This is a live online auction with an auctioneer. The auction will take place on Tuesday 30 June (starting at 10.30am BST) at Dreweatts Newbury, but please note all wine and spirits are stored off-site at LCB Eton Park. Bidding is available online, by telephone, by commission bids or in person at Dreweatts. Please contact Dreweatts to register all commission bids or telephone bids by 12 noon BST the day before the sale.

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Dreweatts Wine Department
Mark Robertson | Violette Jongbloed | Emily Clarke | Lucy Dadd
Direct tel: +44 (0) 1635 553 594
Main tel: +44 (0) 1635 553 553
Email: wine@dreweatts.com
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