Variety: Aligote

Thierry Pillot is the fourth generation of the Pillot legacy in the legendary Côtes de Beaune of southern Burgundy. Even though the domain began with Thierry’s great grandfather—Jean-Baptist —the domain was named after Paul Pillot—Thierry’s father. Jean-Baptiste was a barrel maker by trade and began focusing on his vines full time in 1900; the estate was born then. Today the estate is run by the energetic Thierry, who spends most of his time in the vineyards, but is a non-interventionist in the cellar with discreet usage of new wood. The family are artists in the cellar when it comes to oak usage; it is very well integrated into the wines. Thierry is one of the finest winemakers in the Côtes de Beaune; if one should come across any of his bottles, don’t hesitate to snatch them up.

Aligote often gets the shaft in the world of Burgundy because Chardonnay is always in the spotlight. The truth is some of the most talented winemakers are making incredible Aligote and you should keep an eye out for them. This particular fruit comes from 45+ year old vines in Chassagne Montrachet and Remigny. While most Aligote would be aged in steel, this one ages in older barrels.