2022 Rijckaert Uva Cordata Chardonnay VDF Limoux, Maconnais

Jean Rijckaert established his wine business in the 1990s, building a reputation for beautifully expressive Chardonnay from Burgundy and the Jura. Today, the domaine continues under Florent Rouve, who shares Rijckaert's passion for purity, freshness and wines that speak clearly of their origins. Uva Cordata takes that philosophy south to Limoux, producing a wonderfully characterful Chardonnay at a very approachable price.

Although associated with the Mâconnais, this Vin de France Chardonnay comes from Limoux in the Languedoc, where higher altitude vineyards and cooling influences from the Pyrenees help preserve acidity. The warm 2022 vintage has given the wine attractive ripeness, balanced by the freshness that makes Limoux such an interesting region for Chardonnay.

Bright straw yellow with soft golden reflections. Ripe white peach, yellow apple and lemon zest mingle with acacia blossom, fresh almond and a gentle hint of spice. The palate is rounded and juicy, with generous orchard fruit, a subtle creamy texture and refreshing citrus acidity. A touch of hazelnut and savoury minerality adds interest to the clean, satisfying finish.

Try it with grilled calamari and smoked paprika, baked ricotta with lemon and thyme, or a Spanish tortilla with caramelised onion and roasted peppers. Its easygoing richness also works beautifully with pan fried whiting and a fresh herb dressing.

Cellaring: Drink now to 2029. Particularly appealing for its ripe fruit and fresh, balanced character.