2022 Trenel Vire Clesse Blanc, Burgundy

From the sun drenched slopes of the Mâconnais, Viré Clessé offers a more generous, open hearted expression of Chardonnay, and Trenel captures that charm beautifully. The house itself has deep Burgundian roots, established in 1928 and long respected for sourcing fruit from some of the region’s best growers. In Viré Clessé, limestone rich soils and a slightly warmer pocket of southern Burgundy bring both ripeness and that unmistakable mineral backbone.

The wine opens with ripe pear, white peach and a touch of melon, layered with citrus notes that keep things fresh. There is a gentle floral lift and a hint of honeyed almond, suggesting careful winemaking with oak used sparingly, more about texture than flavour.

Across the palate it is rounded yet balanced, with a soft, almost creamy feel cut by a line of citrus driven acidity. Flavours move from orchard fruit into a lightly savoury finish, where a subtle mineral edge adds definition. It is generous without being heavy, a style that feels both comforting and polished.

This is a natural partner for roast chicken with herbs, grilled pork with apple, or seafood dishes with a bit of richness like scallops or lobster. It also works beautifully with a classic quiche or a simple cheese board featuring Comté or Gruyère.

Enjoy it now while the fruit is vibrant and expressive, though a few years in bottle will bring more nutty complexity and a deeper savoury character.