Domaine Ballot-Millot: Meursault’s Quiet Perfectionist
There are few names in modern Burgundy rising faster than Domaine Ballot-Millot. Based in the heart of Meursault, this historic family estate has found new energy under the leadership of Charles Ballot, whose wines capture the essence of the village with quiet confidence and remarkable precision. In recent Burgfest tastings, Ballot-Millot’s wines outperformed some of Burgundy’s most famous names, a testament to the domaine’s steady ascent to the top tier of Côte de Beaune producers.
Founded in the 17th century and passed through generations of the Ballot and Millot families, the domaine covers around 10 hectares across Meursault, Pommard, Chassagne-Montrachet and Volnay. Today, Charles Ballot stands as one of Burgundy’s most thoughtful vignerons, combining deep respect for tradition with a modern focus on transparency and balance. His approach in both vineyard and cellar is one of restraint: farming is conducted sustainably, fermentations occur naturally, and the wines rest undisturbed on their fine lees to build texture and harmony.
At Ballot-Millot, precision takes precedence over power. The wines reflect the purity of their sites, from the limestone-rich slopes of Meursault to the deeper clays of Pommard. Oak is used sparingly, never dominating, allowing each cru’s mineral character to shine through. The result is a style defined by clarity and poise, Meursaults that are rich in texture but lifted by freshness, wines that speak softly yet leave a lasting impression.
Neal Martin of Vinous describes the wines as “consistently impressive,” noting that Ballot’s 2022s stood shoulder to shoulder with some of Burgundy’s greatest names. They are wines built not for flash, but for finesse, quietly asserting their place among the finest white Burgundies of the Côte d’Or.
Wines Produced at Domaine Ballot-Millot
Meursault Les Narvaux
Perched just above the Premier Crus of Genevrières and Perrières, Narvaux delivers tension and energy. Ballot’s expression is vibrant and mineral, showing citrus, hazelnut and white peach, with a saline finish that lingers long. It is one of the finest village-level Meursaults produced today, and an introduction to the domaine’s elegant style.
Meursault Les Charmes Premier Cru
Charmes is known for its generosity, and Ballot’s version captures that signature opulence while maintaining precision. Aged in lightly toasted oak, it unfolds with layers of pear, almond and honeysuckle balanced by a fine mineral line. The texture is supple yet defined, reflecting a masterful touch with lees ageing.
Meursault Les Genevrières Premier Cru
A jewel in the Ballot-Millot lineup, Genevrières offers both depth and finesse. Aromas of citrus oil, crushed rock and subtle spice give way to a palate that’s taut, silky and beautifully proportioned. This cuvée shows Meursault’s full complexity—floral, mineral and quietly powerful.
Meursault Les Perrières Premier Cru
Long regarded as the pinnacle of Meursault, Perrières represents the domaine’s most refined and age-worthy wine. The limestone soils impart an almost Chablis-like purity, while barrel ageing adds nuance and texture. It’s an expression of power contained within elegance, a wine of precision and focus that continues to impress in blind tastings.
Pommard and Volnay
Though best known for its whites, the domaine’s reds—from Pommard and Volnay—demonstrate equal skill. These are finely structured Pinot Noirs with purity of fruit, gentle extraction and a mineral backbone that speaks to the same philosophy guiding the whites: balance, restraint and authenticity.