Cuvée Oligocène is a white Burgundy from Chardonnay, made in Meursault by Patrick Javillier from parcels with a higher share of limestone in the soil. This stony soil imparts aromas of lemon and orange peel, subtle oak notes, and a taut, driven palate, finishing with a fresh, dry aftertaste.
The 2023 harvest was early. Some Meursault domaines were ready for harvest during the final days of August, and despite the timing, the wine retained its vibrancy. The grapes are pressed using a pneumatic press and fermented in oak barrels with natural yeast, undergoing complete malolactic fermentation. The use of oak barrels is limited to 25-30% new, and bottling took place at the end of November.
Patrick Javillier took over management in 1974 after earning the Diplôme National d'Œnologie certification, and the estate currently operates 11 hectares of vineyards.
It is ready to drink immediately after decanting. The optimal drinking window extends until 2032.
Jancis Robinson (16.5)
More limestone, therefore 25–30% new oak.
More stony-mineral but no lack of citrus fruit. Intense and piercing freshness and masses of tension. Good length, too. GV Julia Harding MW
Vinous (89)
The 2023 Bourgogne Côte d'Or Cuvée Oligocène has a little more evidence of oak on the nose and a touch more yellow fruit than the Cuvée des Forgets. The palate is fresh and lively, mixing citrus lemon with orange rind and a dash of lemongrass towards the finish. Great value as always, this comes recommended.
Burghound (88)
A more layered nose is comprised by notes of petrol, various white orchard fruit, acacia and a whiff of citrus confit. There is a bit more volume to the vibrant and utterly delicious middle weight flavors that retain a fine sense of detail on the drier, longer and more complex finale. This is an excellent Bourgogne and warmly recommended.
Jasper Morris (89)
Bottled end November. A slightly paler lemon yellow. Oligocene proposes a more cerebral aspect after the joyous Forgets. Ther is still an excellent concentration of ripe fruit, with a clear limestone backbone. Very good tension here with some lime notes as well as ripe lemon. Balanced and classy.
