The Criots-Batard-Montrachet appellation was created in 1937; the name "Criots" refers to the chalky, stony soil of the vineyard. This vineyard of 1.57 hectares is one of the smallest appellations in France, producing only a small quantity of its rare wine every year. At an altitude of around 240m, a little lower than its Grands Crus neighbors Chevalier-Montrachet and Montrachet, it is the only one of the 4 Grands Crus in the South of Cote de Beaune that is situated entirely in the village of Chassagne-Montrachet. Made exclusively from Chardonnay, this vineyard benefits from an easterly exposure which guarantees maximum ripeness of the grapes. The soil is made of gravel and is relatively well-drained. It is based on the Bathonian limestone with outcrops of mixed clays.