2023 Bachelet-Monnot Santenay Blanc, Burgundy

The 2023 Santenay Blanc comes from limestone soils and was one of the early pickings of this vintage. It has a primal nose with grapefruit and leesy aromas. The palate is well balanced with crisp acidity and fresh apricot, those limestone soils shaping the sharp citrus finish. There is plenty of freshness here.

88-90 points Neal Martin vinous.com

Domaine Bachelet-Monnot Santenay Blanc from Burgundy is a refined and beautifully balanced Chardonnay that perfectly expresses the freshness and mineral character of the southern Côte de Beaune. Crafted by brothers Marc and Alexandre Bachelet, the wine reflects their precision-driven approach — minimal intervention, gentle handling, and a deep respect for terroir. Though Santenay is often better known for its reds, this white shows just how much potential the appellation holds for producing Chardonnays of purity, texture and quiet sophistication.

The fruit is sourced from several parcels of estate vineyards in Santenay, where the chalky clay and limestone soils lend brightness and mineral tension to the wine. Grapes are hand harvested, whole bunch pressed, and fermented with native yeasts in French oak barrels, about one fifth new. The wine is aged on fine lees for around 12 months without excessive stirring, preserving its energy and focus while adding gentle creaminess and depth.

In the glass it appears pale gold with green highlights. The aroma is delicate and inviting, offering white peach, citrus blossom and pear alongside subtle notes of almond, brioche and wet stone. On the palate it is medium bodied and textural, showing crisp stone fruit, lemon curd and a touch of hazelnut balanced by vibrant acidity and a long, mineral finish. The wine has the hallmark Bachelet-Monnot clarity — pure fruit, subtle oak, and beautifully judged tension.

Domaine Bachelet-Monnot Santenay Blanc pairs wonderfully with grilled fish, roast chicken, creamy risotto or soft cheeses. It also complements shellfish and vegetable dishes featuring lemon, herbs or butter. Enjoy it now for its youthful brightness or cellar for up to eight years to develop added richness and complexity.