Perhaps the finest white Burgundy produced in 2003, Dominique Lafon’s Montrachet, would be a show-stopper in even the greatest vintages. “I couldn’t believe it, nothing affected those vines, and the yields were identical as in 2002 (30 hectoliters per hectare).” Sweet minerals ensconced in a myriad of spices are intermingled with poached pears in the aromatics of this majestic, exceptional wine. This liquid satin of a wine slithers onto the palate, expands, and unleashes waves of roasted minerals, sage, bacon, spices, pears, and buttered toast. Medium-bodied and noble, it displays an unreal finish that lingers for a minute offering additional flavors of creamed hazelnuts, hints of sweet limes, and spiced apples. It is a tour de force of terroir and winemaking! Projected maturity: 2007-2018. Importers: Daniel Johnnes/Jeroboam Wines, New York, NY; tel. (212) 625-2505, Classic Wine Imports, Boston, MA; tel. (617) 469-5799; and Beaune Imports, Berkeley Ca; tel. (510) 841-9815