Terroir
“Les Gruyaches” is a respected lieu-dit in Meursault, positioned on the lower slopes of the village, where deeper soils and slightly warmer conditions give rise to wines of generosity and breadth. The site benefits from excellent sun exposure and a sheltered aspect, allowing Chardonnay to reach full ripeness while maintaining balance.

The soils here are clay-limestone, with a higher proportion of clay than in the upper-slope sites, contributing to the wine’s roundness and mid-palate weight. In 2023, favorable growing conditions delivered ripe, expressive fruit while preserving sufficient acidity, resulting in a wine that reflects both the richness of the site and the precision of Fichet’s winemaking.

Winemaking & Technical Notes
Jean-Philippe Fichet vinifies Les Gruyaches with a restrained, terroir-driven approach. The wine is made from 100% Chardonnay, hand-harvested and gently pressed to protect aromatic purity. Fermentation occurs in French oak barrels, with a carefully calibrated proportion of new oak chosen to support texture rather than dominate the fruit.

Lees aging is employed to build complexity and integration, lending a subtle creaminess through the mid-palate while maintaining clarity and focus. Oak influence remains understated, allowing the character of the vineyard and the balance of the vintage to remain central to the wine’s expression.

Tasting Notes
The 2023 Meursault Les Gruyaches opens with a generous and inviting aromatic profile. Notes of ripe pear, golden apple, and yellow plum are layered with hints of honeyed citrus, hazelnut, and acacia blossom. Subtle undertones of baking spice and wet stone add depth and nuance.

On the palate, the wine is medium- to full-bodied, with a rounded, supple texture. Flavors of baked apple, lemon curd, and stone fruit unfold smoothly across the palate, supported by moderate, well-integrated acidity. The clay-rich soils lend breadth and richness, while a mineral edge keeps the wine balanced and precise.

The finish is long and gently savory, lingering with orchard fruit, light nuttiness, and a soft mineral note. Compared to Les Chevalières, Les Gruyaches offers a more generous, open-knit expression of Meursault, emphasizing texture and approachability.

Food Pairing & Service
Jean-Philippe Fichet Meursault Les Gruyaches 2023 pairs beautifully with roast poultry, creamy pasta dishes, and rich seafood, including lobster, scallops, and halibut. It also complements mushroom-based dishes, risotto, and semi-soft cheeses.

Serve at 50–54°F (10–12°C) in a Burgundy-style white wine glass to showcase its aromatics and texture. While approachable upon release, the wine has the balance and structure to evolve gracefully over 6–10 years, gaining additional nutty and savory complexity with time.