2022 Rijckaert Arbois Jura Chardonnay, Maconnais

Jean Rijckaert established his domaine in the 1990s, developing a reputation for beautifully expressive Chardonnay from both Burgundy and the Jura. Today, Florent Rouve continues that tradition, favouring careful vineyard selection and thoughtful winemaking that preserves freshness and individuality. His Arbois Chardonnay is a lovely example of the Jura's distinctive take on this familiar grape, combining generous fruit with a wonderfully savoury, mineral character.

Although Rijckaert also produces wines in the Mâconnais, this Chardonnay comes from Arbois in the Jura, where limestone and marl soils give the wines their characteristic tension and depth. The warm 2022 vintage produced ripe, concentrated fruit, balanced by the freshness that makes the region's whites so appealing.

Bright straw yellow with soft golden highlights. Ripe yellow apple, pear and lemon zest mingle with white flowers, toasted almond and a delicate hint of spice. The palate is supple and beautifully textured, with juicy orchard fruit, gentle richness and refreshing citrus acidity. Subtle notes of hazelnut, crushed stone and a savoury, lightly saline character linger through a satisfying finish.

Try it with pan fried ocean trout and mustard seed butter, roasted parsnips with hazelnut and thyme, or handmade potato gnocchi with sage and crispy shallots. Its savoury character would also work beautifully with a delicate chicken and leek pie.

Cellaring: Drink now to 2032. Enjoy its youthful fruit or allow a few years for additional nutty and savoury complexity.