Chardonnay Vin de France 2023

Vineyards

The grapes for this wine are a combination of declassified Chablis and parcels located just outside the Chablis appellation in Burgundy. These sites benefit from the region’s limestone-rich Kimmeridgian soils, imparting a distinctive minerality and elegance to the wine. The cool continental climate, with its significant diurnal temperature variation, allows for slow ripening, preserving natural acidity and aromatic complexity. Sustainable viticulture practices are employed, ensuring the health of the vines and the surrounding ecosystem.

Winemaking

This Chardonnay is crafted using 100% hand-harvested grapes, carefully selected to ensure only the finest fruit is used. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, preserving the varietal’s purity and freshness. Notably, the wine is matured on fine lees derived from Christophe Patrice’s Chablis production, enhancing its texture, complexity, and subtle depth. This process ensures a unique interplay of freshness and richness without the use of oak.

Appearance

Pale gold with green reflections, showcasing clarity and vibrancy.

Nose

Aromatic and refined, the bouquet reveals notes of green apple, citrus zest, and white flowers, with underlying hints of crushed stones and a delicate touch of pear.

Palate

The palate is fresh and elegant, displaying flavours of lemon, lime, and crisp green apple. A creamy texture from the lees aging adds depth and balance, leading to a clean, mineral-driven finish with a lingering hint of salinity.

Food pairing

This Chardonnay pairs beautifully with seafood such as oysters, grilled prawns, and scallops. It also complements light poultry dishes, creamy risottos, and soft cheeses like goat cheese or Brie.

Background story

Christophe Patrice, based in the heart of the Chablis region, is a winemaker renowned for his dedication to crafting terroir-driven wines. With a focus on sustainable practices and minimal intervention, Christophe creates wines that reflect the purity and precision of Burgundy’s renowned vineyards. This Vin de France Chardonnay exemplifies his innovative approach, combining declassified Chablis fruit and parcels just outside the appellation to produce a wine that bridges accessibility and refinement. The unique maturation on lees from his Chablis production lends this wine an added dimension of complexity and texture.