2023 Rijckaert Mâcon-Villages Vieilles Vignes, Maconnais

Notes of petrol, white flower, pear and a subtle citrus nuance serve as a pretty introduction to the sappy and appealingly textured flavors that are delicious if not especially refined on the lightly lemon-inflected and slightly rustic finale. To enjoy after a year or two of keeping.

Allen Meadows, Burghound

Jean Rijckaert founded his domaine in the 1990s, establishing a reputation for beautifully expressive Chardonnay from Burgundy and the Jura. Today, Florent Rouve continues that tradition, producing wines that combine generous fruit with freshness and a strong sense of place. The Mâcon-Villages Vieilles Vignes is a particularly appealing example of the domaine's style, demonstrating just how much character and quality can be found in the vineyards of southern Burgundy.

Made from mature Chardonnay vines in the Mâconnais, where limestone and clay soils contribute both richness and mineral freshness, the 2023 reflects the generosity of a warm, favourable vintage. Old vines help deliver concentrated fruit and a pleasing depth of flavour without sacrificing the wine's lively, approachable character.

Pale straw yellow with soft golden highlights. Ripe pear, white peach and yellow apple mingle with lemon blossom, fresh almond and a gentle hint of honey. The palate is juicy and rounded, with succulent orchard fruit, a lightly creamy texture and refreshing citrus acidity. Subtle notes of hazelnut and crushed limestone linger through a clean, gently savoury finish.

Try it with Vietnamese turmeric fish and fresh herbs, golden zucchini and sweetcorn fritters with lime yoghurt, or a warm tart of caramelised onions and goat's cheese. Its easygoing richness also makes it a lovely match for grilled calamari with parsley and lemon.

Cellaring: Drink now to 2030. Best appreciated for its ripe fruit, gentle richness and youthful freshness.