2022 Domaine Theulot Juillot Mercurey Les Chenaults Blanc, Burgundy

The Chenaults climat is located west of the village and occupies a mid-slope position with a full southern orientation. The clay-limestone soils are rich in marl, providing lovely balance between tension, enveloping texture, chewy phenolics and spicy lift. To accentuate the site’s limestone freshness, Juillot raises three-quarters of this cuvée in stainless steel vat. It’s a bright, generous Burgundy packed with golden orchard fruit, sappy pine-like freshness and some iodine and almond complexity. You can expect a layered, fleshy palate—with nice volume but no fat—pulled taut by citrus freshness and a kick of peach blossom and bitter orange peeping through on the finish.

The Domaine Theulot Juillot Mercurey Les Chenaults Blanc from Burgundy is an elegant Chardonnay that captures the essence of the Mercurey appellation in the Côte Chalonnaise. Domaine Theulot Juillot is a renowned family estate known for producing wines that reflect the terroir’s unique characteristics with precision and care.

The Les Chenaults vineyard is located in the heart of Mercurey, where limestone-rich soils and a cool climate contribute to the wine’s freshness, minerality, and complexity. The Chardonnay grapes are hand-harvested at optimal ripeness and fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel and French oak barrels, balancing purity and richness. Aging in oak enhances the wine’s texture and adds subtle layers of flavor without overwhelming the fruit’s natural vibrancy.

In the glass, the wine reveals a pale golden hue with brilliant highlights. The nose is inviting, with aromas of lemon zest, white peach, and pear, complemented by hints of toasted almond, vanilla, and a subtle flinty character.

On the palate, the Mercurey Les Chenaults Blanc is medium-bodied and balanced, with flavors of citrus, green apple, and a touch of honey. A refreshing acidity and a chalky minerality provide structure and length, leading to a clean, elegant finish with lingering notes of citrus and hazelnut.

This Chardonnay is versatile, pairing beautifully with dishes such as roast chicken, pan-seared fish, or creamy risottos. While it is enjoyable in its youth for its bright fruit and freshness, it also has the potential to age gracefully for 3-5 years, developing further depth and complexity.