2022 Rijckaert St. Véran En Crêches Vieilles Vignes, Maconnais

Jean Rijckaert built his reputation on expressive Chardonnay from the Mâconnais and Jura, favouring carefully selected vineyards and winemaking that respects the character of each site. Since taking the reins, Florent Rouve has continued that philosophy, producing whites with lovely fruit definition, texture and freshness. En Crêches Vieilles Vignes is a particularly attractive Saint-Véran, showing the depth and character that mature Chardonnay vines can deliver.

The En Crêches vineyard lies within the Saint-Véran appellation in southern Burgundy, where limestone influenced soils provide an excellent foundation for Chardonnay. The warm, sunny 2022 vintage produced beautifully ripe fruit, while the old vines contribute concentration and a satisfying mineral structure.

Bright pale gold with delicate straw reflections. Ripe pear, white peach and preserved lemon mingle with honeysuckle, toasted almond and a hint of fresh butter. The palate is generous yet finely balanced, with succulent orchard fruit, a smooth, gently creamy texture and refreshing citrus acidity. Subtle notes of hazelnut and limestone carry through a long, elegant finish.

Try it with grilled swordfish and caper salsa, roasted fennel with Parmesan and lemon, or handmade crab and ricotta cannelloni. Its richness also makes it a lovely partner for golden potato and leek rösti topped with smoked trout.

Cellaring: Drink now to 2032. Beautifully approachable, with the concentration and freshness to develop additional savoury complexity.