2023 Joseph Drouhin Cote de Beaune Blanc, Burgundy

Lovely, creamy and polished texture to this, with a sense of soft, silky tannins. The nose and palate show white flowers and light honey with some chalk and minerals. White roses, too. It's medium-bodied with a lovely finish. Vivid. Hard to find a white from Cote de Beaune at this quality level. Drink or hold.

94 points James Suckling

Maison Joseph Drouhin is one of Burgundy's great family estates, its roots stretching back to 1880 when Joseph Drouhin established the business in Beaune. Today the fourth generation of the family continues the pursuit of elegance and authenticity, with the house farming biodynamically across some of Burgundy's most famous vineyards and crafting wines that speak clearly of their origins.

The Côte de Beaune is the spiritual home of great white Burgundy, where limestone rich soils and a cool continental climate provide the perfect conditions for Chardonnay. Sourced from carefully selected vineyards throughout the appellation, this wine captures the generosity and finesse that have made the region the benchmark for Chardonnay lovers around the world.

The colour is a brilliant pale gold with youthful green highlights. Aromas of white peach, nectarine and lemon curd rise from the glass alongside notes of acacia blossom, toasted almonds and a touch of struck flint. The palate is beautifully balanced, combining ripe stone fruit and citrus flavours with a fine creamy texture and vibrant acidity. A chalky mineral thread runs from start to finish, bringing freshness and precision to the long elegant finish.

Superb with lobster rolls, roast chicken with tarragon and cream, grilled King George whiting or a wild mushroom and thyme tart. Enjoy over the next five to eight years as the wine gains additional complexity and nuance.