2022 Arnaud Baillot Sur le Sentier du Clou Saint Aubin 1er Cru, Burgundy

Arnaud Baillot is part of a new generation bringing fresh energy to Burgundy, working alongside his wife Laure, whose family has deep roots in the region. Based in Beaune, the couple produces wines from carefully selected vineyards across the Côte d'Or, combining traditional Burgundian craftsmanship with a thoughtful, modern approach. Sur le Sentier du Clou is a particularly appealing Saint-Aubin Premier Cru, showing the elegance and character that have made this village increasingly sought after.

The vineyard sits on the slopes above Saint-Aubin, where limestone and clay soils help Chardonnay develop richness while retaining its characteristic freshness. The warm, sunny 2022 vintage produced beautifully ripe fruit, giving this Premier Cru a generous, inviting personality balanced by the site's natural mineral character.

Bright pale gold with subtle green highlights. Ripe white peach, golden apple and lemon blossom mingle with toasted hazelnut, fresh butter and a touch of vanilla spice. The palate is supple and beautifully rounded, with succulent stone fruit, gentle creaminess and finely balanced acidity. Notes of almond pastry and crushed limestone lead into a long, elegant finish.

Try it with pan roasted blue eye trevalla and fennel, a delicate crab and leek tart, or roasted celeriac with brown butter and toasted walnuts. Its richness also makes it a lovely partner for handmade ricotta gnocchi with sage and Parmesan.

Cellaring: Drink now to 2035. Already attractive for its generous fruit, with the structure to develop greater savoury complexity over the next decade.