White Wine

Memo Summary Notes 

The Domaine Leflaive Mâcon-Verzé "Les Chênes" 2023 is a prestigious biodynamic white Burgundy that serves as an entry point into the world of the most famous Chardonnay producer on earth. While Leflaive’s Grand Crus from Puligny-Montrachet fetch thousands, their Mâcon-Verzé wines are crafted with the same biodynamic rigor and technical precision by the same winemaking team.

The "Les Chênes" (The Oaks) is a specific vineyard within the Mâcon-Verzé appellation known for its older vines (some planted in 1935) and south-facing exposure, which produces a wine with more structure and "toasty" complexity than their standard Mâcon-Verzé.

    •    Food Pairing: Its mineral precision and creamy finish make it perfect for butter-poached lobster, grilled scallops, or a rich vegetable tart.

    •    Cheese: Pairs exceptionally well with Chèvre (goat cheese) or a younger Comté.

Winemaker Description 

Clay-limestone terroir with little depth before reaching the bedrock. Gentle to very steep slopes. Surface area: 3.43 ha located in the heart of the Verzé valley, "Les Chênes" comprises two south-west-facing parcels.

The vines are cultivated biodynamically.

Harvesting is entirely manual, and pressing is carried out in Verzé. After decanting, the musts are transported daily to Puligny- Montrachet for fermentation and ageing, under the watchful eye of Domaine Leflaive's technical team. Vinification takes place in vats, and ageing lasts from 15 to 16 months.
Pressing: Long, gentle pneumatic pressing, 24-hour decanting followed by settling.
Fermentation: 55% in stainless steel tanks, 42% in cement tanks and 3% in new oak barrels.

Ageing: After 10 months' ageing on lees in fermentation containers, the wine is racked into stainless steel tanks and aged on fine lees for 6 months. Winemaker Description. 

Silver Gate | Chardonnay | California

Silver Gate is an on-premise exclusive crafted by James Foster, a winemaker with a long legacy of coaxing true varietal character from California fruit. The philosophy is straightforward: let the grape speak, keep the winemaking clean, and deliver something genuinely enjoyable at an accessible price. This Chardonnay is medium-bodied and approachable, with ripe tropical fruit, a touch of vanilla, and a smooth, crisp finish — the kind of bottle that works equally well alongside a meal or as a way to decompress at the end of a long day.

• Appellation: California
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Format: 750ml | Screwcap
• Style: Medium-bodied, fruit-forward, smooth finish

Tasting Notes

Ripe tropical fruit, vanilla, and a smooth, crisp finish. Approachable and easy-drinking with enough body to pair well at the table.

Pairing Suggestions

• Poultry: Roast chicken, turkey, or creamy chicken pasta.
• Seafood: Grilled shrimp, salmon, or light fish tacos.
• Casual: Soft cheeses, charcuterie, or a simple weeknight dinner.

Yellow Tail | Chardonnay | South Eastern Australia | NV | 1.5L Magnum

Yellow Tail is one of Australia's most recognized and beloved wine brands, produced by the Casella family in Yenda, New South Wales. Since its launch in 2001, [yellow tail] has become a global phenomenon — a wine that introduced millions of drinkers to the approachable, fruit-forward style of Australian white wine. Sourced from vineyards across South Eastern Australia, it is crafted to be consistent, reliable, and endlessly enjoyable at an unbeatable everyday price.

Delicious and easy to drink, with a perfect balance of fruit, acidity, and oak. Fresh peach, melon, and a hint of vanilla on the nose and palate, with a silky smooth mouthfeel and a rich, creamy finish. Full-bodied and bright — everything a crowd-pleasing Chardonnay should be. The 1.5L Magnum format is perfect for entertaining, parties, and gatherings — twice the wine, twice the fun.

Pair with roasted chicken, seafood, pasta with cream sauce, salads, and vegetarian dishes.

• Producer: Casella Family Brands
• Appellation: South Eastern Australia
• Grape: Chardonnay
• Style: Full-bodied, fruit-forward Australian Chardonnay
• Closure: Screwcap
• Format: 1.5L Magnum (equivalent to 2 standard bottles)

Hess Select Chardonnay Monterey County 2024 — Monterey County, California

Hess Collection is one of California’s most respected family-owned wineries, with estates spanning Napa Valley and beyond. Hess Select is their approachable everyday label — crafted with the same attention to quality as their flagship wines but designed for the table. This Monterey County Chardonnay draws from one of California’s premier cool-climate appellations, where Pacific breezes off Monterey Bay preserve natural acidity and allow grapes to ripen slowly and evenly, producing Chardonnay of genuine character at an honest price.

A thoughtful blend of 70% stainless steel and 30% French oak fermentation keeps the wine fresh and bright while adding a touch of richness. The nose opens with aromas of grilled pineapple, star fruit, and vanilla, leading to a medium-bodied palate of sliced peach and golden apple, with a touch of crème brûlée on the finish — clean, balanced, and crowd-pleasing.

70% stainless, 30% French oak — Monterey freshness with just enough richness to satisfy.

• Producer: Hess Collection (Hess Select), Napa Valley, California
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Monterey County
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Fermentation: 70% stainless steel, 30% French oak
• Format: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Grilled pineapple, star fruit, vanilla, sliced peach, golden apple, crème brûlée finish
• Best Paired With: Roast chicken, grilled halibut, lobster mac and cheese, creamy pasta, Brie, aged cheddar, goat cheese

Consistent, crowd-pleasing, and genuinely well-made — Hess Select Chardonnay is the benchmark for everyday California white.

Defaix Frères Rully 1er Cru Les Cloux — Burgundy 2022

Defaix Frères is a family domaine with deep roots in the Côte Chalonnaise, farming 11 acres of Rully Premier Cru holdings that have been in the family for generations. Les Cloux is one of Rully’s most prized Premier Cru vineyards — a south-facing site that captures the full warmth of the Burgundian sun while retaining the limestone-driven minerality that defines the appellation. The 2022 vintage was a gift: a warm, dry growing season that produced Chardonnay of exceptional ripeness and concentration, with the structure to age gracefully for a decade or more. At this price, it is one of the most compelling Premier Cru values in all of Burgundy.

The color is a luminous golden straw. The nose is refined and expressive: ripe citrus, green apple, white peach, and delicate white flowers, layered with warm spice and a signature note of roasted hazelnut from judicious oak élevage. On the palate, it is fresh and beautifully balanced — crisp acidity framing a subtle creamy texture, with flavors of lemon zest, orchard fruit, and gentle limestone minerality leading to a long, clean, and elegant finish.

“Delicious, open, and friendly — ripe, crisp apples and pears with an undercurrent of warm spices and roasted hazelnut. A judicious use of oak.”

• Producer: Defaix Frères, Rully, Côte Chalonnaise, Burgundy, France
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Rully 1er Cru Les Cloux AOC
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Holdings: 11 acres of Rully Premier Cru
• Style: Refined, expressive, mineral-driven white Burgundy
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Citrus, green apple, white peach, white flowers, roasted hazelnut, warm spice, limestone minerality
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or cellar 8–10 years
• Best Paired With: Roast chicken, lobster, seafood, creamy pastas, egg dishes, patés, soft cheeses

Premier Cru Burgundy at an honest price — Defaix Frères Les Cloux is the Côte Chalonnaise at its most compelling.

Winemaker Evan Martin has called Koosah “the greatest Chardonnay vineyard in the Willamette Valley” — and the scores agree. Sourced from the Koosah Vineyard in the Eola-Amity Hills, this is Oregon grand cru Chardonnay in every sense: remarkable texture and tension between fruit, minerality, and acidity, with a finish that lingers with persistent freshness and a note of salinity. Martin himself describes it as Oregon’s answer to Puligny-Montrachet — built to drink now or cellar for 15+ years.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

“Dazzles with spiced apples, damp earth, a hint of saline, green melon, and subtle notes of white tea. Beautiful structure with a touch of tannins, perfect acidity and balanced sweetness, leading to a long, fruit-forward and saline-infused finish. An outstanding bottle poised for an even brighter future. Editor’s Choice.” — 97 pts, International Wine Cellar

“Bright yellow/silver color. Notes of smoky earth, white peach, lemon oil, and white floral tone. Lovely richness without weight, exceptionally focused length. Drink 2025–2037.” — 96 pts, Jeb Dunnuck

“The floral quality of its aromas balances the somewhat rich mouthfeel. Vibrant energy and nice overall structure — balanced acidity — featuring notes of stone fruits, crispy apples, lemon peel, and herbs. This wine nails both phenolic structure and rich texture.” — 95 pts, Decanter

Winery Notes: Lemon oil, green & gold apple, moss, white flower & minerals. Medium weight while possessing weightlessness. Our ‘Puligny’ — Oregon grand cru Chardonnay to enjoy now or cellar 15+ years.

Food Pairings: Roasted halibut, lobster, scallops, truffle risotto, aged Gruyère, and soft-ripened cheeses.

Varietal: Chardonnay
Producer: Martin Woods
Vineyard: Koosah Vineyard
Appellation: Eola-Amity Hills, Willamette Valley, Oregon
Vintage: 2022
Cellar: Drink now or cellar 15+ years
Bottle Size: 750ml

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

James Suckling 96 Points | The density and balance are so attractive here, with sliced apples, white pineapple and crushed stones. Hints of dried flowers, too, such as white roses and lilacs, as well as almonds. Medium-bodied with focus and subtle strength. Seemingly endless, with a bitter-lemon edge and nice reduction in the aftertaste of gun metal. Drink and enjoy.

Decanter 94 Points | Drouhin's Clos des Mouches 2023 exemplifies the vintage's potential for delicious whites. The wine has lush, forward aromas of Mirabelle plums and quince with hints of marzipan, butter and a suggestion of stylishly smoky reduction. The texture is supple and dense, but the richness is kept in balance and the extract carries the wine to a lingering finish. Parts of the 7ha vineyard have been replanted; the old vines that produce this bottling have delivered a wine of great character.

The Wine Advocate 93-94 Points | The 2023 Beaune 1er Cru Clos des Mouches Blanc (Domaine) is another strong performance, delivering aromas of sweet pear, peach and mandarin mingled with buttered toast and mint. Full-bodied, rich and ample, it's layered and unctuous, with a seamless, satiny, textural profile and a long, lusty finish.

The Wine Spectator 92 Points | Stylish and graceful, this white evokes lemon, apple, white flower and honey aromas and flavors. Almost seamless in its texture and balance, with finely meshed acidity providing lift and freshness. Excellent length.

Winemaker Notes

An outstanding wine. Pale yellow color. Complex floral nose of white lilac and white rose. Once open, fruity aromas come to the fore, evolving towards grilled hazelnut and almond. When the wine is more mature, the nose is surprisingly strong and fifteen minutes of aeration produce wonderful notes of white truffle, citron (cedrat), honey and nutmeg, elegantly meshed together. Very lively on the palate. Its rich texture is in evidence, but also its structure and minerality. It is round, but never heavy. Harmonious fullness in the aftertaste. This wine allies remarkably the complexity and elegance of a Bâtard-Montrachet with the power of a Corton-Charlemagne.

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James Suckling 93 Points | An enticing but well-balanced wine that combines a super-creamy texture with vivid tropical fruit, poached pears and baking spices. It's all barrel-fermented in about 30% oak and shows the characteristic toast, dough and light butter notes of an excellent chardonnay. Affordable for the quality. Drink now or hold.

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The name Contrade (Latin for parcel of land) refers to vineyards bordered by olive trees, stone walls or other natural features that become identifiable by their name. The Falvo family, of Masseria Li Veli work with their partner growers for the Contrade project. The white wine is 100% Chardonnay grown in sandy and limestone soils an excellent place to best express its bouquet, fresh with crisp acidity and easy to drink.

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A California Chardonnay benchmark in a generous magnum format — J. Lohr Riverstone Chardonnay 2023 comes from the cool-climate Arroyo Seco appellation in Monterey County, where the Ventana winds off Monterey Bay slow ripening and preserve natural acidity. The result is a full-bodied, richly textured Chardonnay that balances ripe fruit generosity with freshness and finesse.

The nose offers pear, white peach, floral notes, and a hint of baking spice. On the palate it’s round and buttery with flavors of baked apple, toast, brown butter, and honey — ripe and generous, with a soft, lingering finish. A crowd-pleasing style that over-delivers at its price point, especially in the 1.5L magnum format ideal for entertaining.

Expert Review — Vintage 2023

James Suckling — 91 Points | This full-bodied, round and buttery chardonnay has notes of baked apples, toast and brown butter. Ripe, soft and generous.

• Producer: J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines, San Jose, California
• Appellation: Arroyo Seco, Monterey County, California
• Vintage: 2023
• Style: Full-Bodied Chardonnay
• Format: 1.5L Magnum
• Pair With: Triple crème cheese, seafood risotto, mussels in white wine sauce, chicken piccata

Expert Review - Vintage 2021 

Michael Alberty of the Wine Enthusiast 93 Points | I'm a Kansas kid, so I'm a sucker for a sunflowers. The juice inside this bottle, however, is what will make me buy it again. The Sunflower offers aromas of lemon, rosemary and a wee bit of butterscotch. A rich texture and lemon curd and brioche flavors are counterpointed by tangy acidity. Pour with The Wizard of Oz.

Eric Guido OF Vinous writes 92 Points | Honeyed flowers, green melon, chamomile and hints of gingery spice waft up from the 2021 Chardonnay The Sunflower. Soothingly round, this impresses with its depths of ripe pit fruits and candied citrus tones, all perfectly offset by a salty tinge of minerality. The 2021 leaves a cheek-puckering freshness and minty herbal tones, finishing with staining length and freshness.  Drinking 2024 to 2028.  - Vinous 92

James Suckling writes 91 Points | A refreshing and citrusy chardonnay with notes of lemons, baking spices and some blanched almonds. Medium-bodied with fresh acidity. Focused and well-made, with a delicious finish. Drink now. 

Expert Review - Vintage 2022

Alain Meadows of Burghound writes 95 Points |  Here too the beautifully layered nose is decidedly cool with its more citrus-suffused aromas of green apple, wet stone and crushed fennel. The more refined, if slightly less concentrated, medium weight flavors flash an almost pungent minerality on the beautifully textured, bone-dry and sneaky long finale. This chiseled effort will need at least a few years of cellaring first as it's quite tightly wound today.  - Burghound 95 ♥️

Winemaker Description

Lightly touched by wood aging, this ripe Mercurey Blanc is both crisp and rich. Its briskness brings a mineral edge while the ripeness produces generous apple and apricot fruit. Matured on fine lees with regular stirring, the wine possesses remarkable body and smooth richness that are central to its balance. Ready to drink now.

About Philippe Le Hardi

Philippe Le Hardi is one of Burgundy’s most respected négociant-éleveurs, based in Santenay on the southern Côte de Beaune and specializing in wines from the Côte Chalonnaise and Côte d’Or. With deep roots in the region and a commitment to expressing the character of each appellation, Philippe Le Hardi produces wines that balance Burgundian tradition with approachability. Their kosher range — certified Kosher for Passover and Mevushal — is crafted to the same standards as their full portfolio, bringing authentic Burgundy to the kosher table. The Mercurey Blanc is sourced from the Côte Chalonnaise, Burgundy’s most underrated appellation for white wine, where Chardonnay on limestone and clay soils produces wines of real depth and mineral character at outstanding value.

Food Pairings

Grilled fish, roasted chicken, veal in cream sauce, soft ripened cheeses, mushroom risotto, and light pasta dishes. A natural match for Shabbat dinners, Passover seders, and holiday tables. A versatile, food-friendly white Burgundy.

Product Details

• Producer: Philippe Le Hardi
• Appellation: Mercurey Blanc AOC, Côte Chalonnaise, Burgundy, France
• Grape: Chardonnay
• Aging: Lightly oaked, matured on fine lees with regular stirring
• Certification: Kosher for Passover, Mevushal
• Vintage: 2023
• Style: Crisp, rich, mineral white Burgundy
• Format: 750ml

Alexander Valley Vineyards Chardonnay — Alexander Valley, Sonoma County 2023

Alexander Valley Vineyards is one of Sonoma County's most storied family estates, farming the Alexander Valley AVA with a precision and philosophy that has made their Chardonnay one of the appellation's most consistent overachievers. The 2023 is built on a thoughtful split-harvest approach: 75% of the fruit is harvested at night when the grapes are cool, cold-fermented in stainless steel without malolactic fermentation or barrel aging to preserve bright citrus and green apple character; the remaining 25% is whole-cluster pressed and barrel-fermented in French oak, then aged on the lees for six to eight months to develop roundness, body, and complexity. The result is a full-bodied, beautifully balanced Chardonnay that earned 92 points from The Tasting Panel.

The nose opens with apple, pear, vanilla, floral notes, and a hint of oak — generous and inviting. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and lush with flavors of grilled pineapple, baked pear, nectarine, juicy peach, and tropical fruit, cut by a bright acidity and a mineral core that keeps everything focused. The finish is subtly buttery and vanilla-flecked, long and satisfying. It is the kind of Chardonnay that rewards both the casual drinker and the wine enthusiast.

The Tasting Panel 92 — "The balance between richer and more mouthwatering in this estate-grown Chardonnay is excellent. Grilled pineapple and baked pear are cut by acidity. The mineral core is a solid counterpart to the subtly buttery, vanilla-flecked finish." 

• Producer: Alexander Valley Vineyards, Healdsburg, Sonoma County, California
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Alexander Valley AVA
• Region: Sonoma County, California
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Vinification: 75% night-harvested, stainless steel, no MLF; 25% whole-cluster pressed, French oak barrel-fermented, 6–8 months lees aging
• Closure: Screwcap
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Apple, pear, pineapple, nectarine, peach, vanilla, floral, mineral, buttery finish
• Best Paired With: Roast chicken, grilled halibut, lobster bisque, soft cheeses, pasta in cream sauce

A 92-point estate Chardonnay from one of Sonoma's most trusted family vineyards — Alexander Valley Vineyards is the benchmark for what night-harvested, lees-aged Alexander Valley Chardonnay can deliver.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2021 

Burghound 93 Points | A more reserved if equally airy and elegant speaks more of acacia, green apple and zest, all of which is trimmed in enough wood to notice. Here too there is excellent volume and punch to the medium-bodied that flash noticeably more minerality on the beautifully persistent finish. Like the Pucelle, this possesses a simply gorgeous texture that can be replicated by no other commune in the Côte. It's worth pointing out that the Pucelle and Cailleret are quite similar qualitatively but they offer two very different expressions. Outstanding. ♥

Decanter 94 Points | Chartron’s Clos du Cailleret is a regal premier cru. This emblematic cuvée of the Chartron family is particularly successful in 2021, with exotic aromas of guava and pomelo, lemon, and spice. The texture is concentrated and rich, with no lack of acidity but an equally impressive richness in extract for balance. The vines come from the Chartron parcel of nearly a hectare at the northern end of the Clos. The grapes are lightly crushed and slowly pressed before fermentation in cask (25% new)—genuinely delicious wine. 

Ramey Hyde Vineyard Chardonnay — Carneros, California 2023

Ramey Wine Cellars is one of California's most celebrated addresses for Chardonnay — founded in 1996 by David and Carla Ramey, and now co-led by the second generation, Claire and Alan. David Ramey, hailed as "Professor Chardonnay" by Wine Spectator, pioneered whole-cluster pressing, sur lies aging, malolactic fermentation, and native yeast fermentations in California — techniques now standard across the state. The Hyde Vineyard in Carneros is one of his most storied sources: a benchmark site that produces Chardonnay of extraordinary elegance, tension, and longevity. James Suckling awarded the 2023 vintage 99 points; Wine Advocate 95; Vinous 95; Wine Spectator 94. At $89.99, it is one of the most compelling single-vineyard Chardonnays in California.

The nose is refined and expressive: quince, white peach, lemon curd, orchard fruit, lemon confit, marzipan, elderflower, white flowers, mint, and a whisper of matchstick and crème brûlée. On the palate, the texture is silky and layered — concentrated and nuanced, with vibrant acidity that adds compelling tension and a sense of total finesse. Citrus, green apple, mango, guava, lemongrass, and lime leaf unfurl slowly toward a very long, elegant, mineral finish. Generous and full-flavored, yet restrained and precise. Drink now or best from 2030.

James Suckling 99 — "So well layered, delicious and vibrant... great balance, minerality and a slight sense of restraint in the vivid acidity. Fresh and compelling."

Wine Advocate 95 — "Elegant and expressive... bursting with concentrated, nuanced flavors delivered in a silky texture. Vibrant acidity adds compelling tension."

Vinous 95 — "Classy, elegant and polished. Soft contours and lifted aromatics convey total finesse... an especially refined rendition of Hyde."

Wine Spectator 94 — "Supple and incredibly juicy... details of green apple, celery salt, lemongrass and lime leaf linger on the fresh, persistent finish."

• Producer: Ramey Wine Cellars, Healdsburg, California
• Vineyard: Hyde Vineyard, Carneros
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Carneros AVA
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Vinification: Whole-cluster pressing, native yeast fermentation, sur lies barrel aging, malolactic fermentation, unfiltered
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Quince, white peach, lemon curd, marzipan, elderflower, lemongrass, lime leaf, mineral finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or best from 2030
• Best Paired With: Roast lobster, halibut, truffle risotto, roast chicken, aged Gruyère, scallops with beurre blanc

A 99-point Chardonnay from California's most principled Chardonnay house — Ramey Hyde Vineyard is the benchmark for what Carneros can achieve.

Mineral · Flinty · Saline · Elegant · Powerful

A thrilling Premier Cru Chablis with ripe orchard fruit, smoky minerality and a long, saline finish.

Domaine William Fèvre’s Chablis 1er Cru Montée de Tonnerre 2023 is a beautifully composed expression of one of Chablis’ most highly regarded Premier Cru vineyards. Known for combining impressive depth with exceptional mineral tension, Montée de Tonnerre consistently produces wines of remarkable refinement, structure and longevity.

The 2023 vintage is both generous and energetic. Aromas of ripe Mirabelle plum, nectarine and green apple are layered with flinty minerality and subtle smoky reduction, creating a complex and expressive bouquet. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

On the palate, the wine is richly textured yet beautifully precise. Golden apple and orchard fruit are joined by notes of pear, orange peel, fennel and beeswax, while a chalky mineral backbone and vibrant acidity keep the wine fresh and focused.

There is excellent depth through the mid-palate, but the wine never feels heavy. Instead, the concentration is balanced by freshness and energy, leading to a long, mouthwatering finish marked by stone, citrus and a distinctive saline character.

Montée de Tonnerre is one of those Premier Crus that can offer nearly Grand Cru-like depth while retaining the finesse and purity that make great Chablis so compelling. The 2023 is already impressive, yet its structure and acidity should allow it to develop beautifully with additional bottle age.

Food Pairing

Pair with oysters, lobster, scallops, langoustines and grilled or roasted fish. Its richness also makes it an excellent match for turbot, Dover sole, roast chicken, veal and refined seafood dishes finished with butter or light cream sauces.

Serve lightly chilled to allow the wine’s fruit, smoky mineral character and layered complexity to fully emerge.

Professional Ratings

94 Decanter Magazine writes: "a powerful, thrilling wine shows pronounced, ripe aromas of mirabelle plum, nectarine and green apple, with a strong underpinning of flinty minerality and smoky reduction. "

95 Wine Enthusiast - June 1, 2026 "This wine is elegance in a glass. Layered aromas of golden apple, toasted brioche, dried hay, field herbs, and forest floor charm the nose dusted with lemon zest. The palate is luxurious and richly textured with just-ripened orchard fruit riding a layer of stony acidity to the long finish. Editor’s Choice."

94 James Suckling - May 31, 2026 "Excellent depth of minerality and chalkiness, with smoky, flinty green apples. Chalky on the palate, with medium- to full-bodied character and a zesty, lightly saline finish. Energetic, with purity and inconspicuous depth and concentration."

93 Wine Advocate - January 29, 2026 "The 2023 Chablis 1er Cru Montée de Tonnerre unites a solar personality of the year with tension, delivering aromas of beeswax, pear, orange peel and fennel, mingling with oyster liquor. Medium- to full-bodied, the palate is tangy and textural, with considerable depth and a long, saline finish."

92 Wine Spectator - December 31, 2025 "A rich version, laced with honeysuckle, peach, yellow plum and August meadow, plus a flash of cinnamon. This is balanced and charming, with a mineral undercurrent on the mouthwatering aftertaste. Drink now through 2032."

The Style

Powerful yet refined — a deeply mineral Premier Cru Chablis with impressive texture, vibrant acidity and a long, saline finish.

Floral · Chalky · Saline · Pure · Elegant

A beautifully refined Premier Cru Chablis with vibrant citrus, crushed-shell minerality and a long, cool saline finish.

Domaine William Fèvre’s Chablis 1er Cru Les Lys 2023 is a graceful and highly distinctive expression of the left bank of the Serein. Les Lys is a historic climat within the celebrated Vaillons Premier Cru, situated toward the upper portion of the hillside and known for producing Chablis of exceptional elegance, freshness and finesse.

William Fèvre owns approximately 0.99 hectare in Les Lys, an east-facing parcel planted on clay soils over Chablis’ famous Kimmeridgian limestone. Historically associated with French royalty, the vineyard combines a privileged location with a cooler personality that allows the fruit to ripen slowly while preserving beautiful acidity and mineral definition.

The 2023 vintage opens with bright aromas of green apple, lemon oil and fresh stone fruit, joined by white flowers, subtle herbs and delicate marine notes. With air, layers of oyster shell, chalk and crushed stone become increasingly pronounced.

On the palate, the wine is precise, fresh and beautifully balanced. Orchard fruit and citrus are carried by lively acidity, while a finely textured chalkiness gives the wine shape and definition. There is an appealing suppleness through the mid-palate, but the overall impression remains cool, mineral and distinctly Chablisien.

The finish is long and refreshing, marked by crushed shell, citrus zest and a lingering saline quality. Les Lys is less about sheer power than purity, elegance and mineral tension, making it a particularly refined expression of William Fèvre’s Premier Cru holdings.

Winemaking is deliberately gentle to preserve the character of the vineyard. The fruit is handled largely by gravity, followed by delicate pressing and natural alcoholic and malolactic fermentations. The wine is matured with a restrained use of older French oak before completing its élevage in stainless steel, maintaining freshness and allowing the terroir to remain at the forefront.

Food Pairing

An excellent partner for oysters, clams, scallops, shrimp and grilled seafood, as well as delicate white fish such as sole, halibut and sea bass.

Its combination of freshness and texture also pairs beautifully with roast chicken, poultry in a light cream sauce, goat cheese and gently seasoned vegetable dishes.

Serve lightly chilled to allow the wine’s floral character, subtle fruit and mineral complexity to fully emerge.

Professional Ratings

94 James Suckling: More green stone fruit and chopped herbs on the nose, with crushed shells and mineral. Bright, dry and medium-weighted, with a nicely chalky mouthfeel despite the vertical, zestier acidity. Stony, cool and pure on the finish.

93 Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: Sourced from a north-facing site beneath forest cover with clay-rich soils, a parcel selection in Vaillons, the 2023 Chablis 1er Cru Les Lys is among the most quintessentially Chablisien wines in the portfolio and is harvested around a week later than the fruit that enters the Vaillons bottling. It offers aromas of oyster juice, white flowers, lemon oil and Granny Smith apple, followed by a medium- to full-bodied, incisive and pure palate that is elegant yet racy and fresh, concluding with a long, saline finish.

93 Vinous: The 2023 Chablis Les Lys 1er Cru comes from a single hectare of vines. Lime, red apple and touches of orange pith and peach skin develop in the glass. The palate is well balanced with a taut line of acidity, silky smooth, very composed with a lot of finesse on the finish. This is one of the domaine's hidden gems and should not be under-estimated.

92 Jasper Morris: Clear pale lemon yellow. The nose is taking coaxing but has the precision. Very good tension, still with delicacy despite the concentration, nothing dilute here, good tension with a little bitterness at the back. Barrel sample: 90-92

92 Wine Enthusiast: This is a particularly well-balanced Cha- blis. Aromas of green apple, lightly browned toast, and lilac open on the nose accented by dried white blos- som. The saline-dusted palate washes across crushed shells and rides a wave of chalky acidity that becomes more emergent on the finish.

The Style

Elegant, cool and mineral-driven — a beautifully precise Premier Cru Chablis combining floral finesse, chalky freshness and a lingering saline finish.

William Fèvre Chablis 1er Cru Les Lys 2023

Aromas of candied lemon and acacia flowers rise from the glass with effortless charm. On the palate, brioche and wet stones unfold across a broad, expansive texture — supported by bright, ripe acidity and a long, complex finish that speaks to the quiet elegance only great Burgundy can offer.

Blend: 100% Chardonnay
Appellation: Pouilly-Fuissé 1er Cru, Burgundy, France
Vintage: 2023
Format: 750ml

For nearly 200 years, Maison Louis Jadot has been a guardian of Burgundy's viticultural heritage. Managing hundreds of carefully tended parcels passed down through generations, the house combines deep respect for terroir with precision winemaking. Their private nursery — founded in 1995 — preserves old-vine Chardonnay and Pinot Noir genetic material, ensuring future vintages carry the same soul as those of the past.

Barkan Winery is one of Israel's most celebrated and historic wine producers, with roots stretching back to the late 19th century. Today, the winery is a benchmark for quality Israeli wine, farming over 10 square kilometers of vineyards planted with top-grade varietals sourced from around the world and carefully matched to the most suitable growing sites across Israel. Barkan's winemakers have earned international recognition and prestigious awards for their commitment to quality and their willingness to push the boundaries of Israeli viticulture. All Barkan wines are produced under strict Kosher supervision.

The Gold Edition is the pinnacle of Barkan's Reserve Series — a special edition of exceptional wines with a unique character, crafted from the finest fruit the estate has to offer. The Chardonnay is sourced from the Bekoa Vineyard in the Judean Foothills, a region prized for its elevation, limestone-rich soils, and the natural freshness it imparts to white wines. The Judean Foothills' combination of warm days and cool nights creates ideal conditions for Chardonnay of concentration and aromatic complexity.

Following harvest, the wine is aged for six months in oak barrels, developing richness, texture, and a creamy depth while preserving the natural vibrancy of the fruit. The result is a full-flavored, well-structured Chardonnay with genuine complexity and a long, satisfying finish.

The 2024 Gold Edition Chardonnay is rich and full-flavored, with aromas of ripe stone fruit, vanilla, and toasted oak. On the palate, the wine is generous and round with creamy texture, well-integrated oak, and a long, warm finish. A serious, barrel-aged Israeli Chardonnay that delivers both character and elegance.

Grape: Chardonnay
Region: Judean Foothills, Israel
Vineyard: Bekoa Vineyard
Vintage: 2024
Certification: Kosher
Élevage: 6 months in oak barrels
Bottle Size: 750ml

Pairing: Roast chicken, grilled fish, creamy pasta, soft cheeses, and classic Mediterranean dishes.

Latour Vincent Saint-Aubin "Cuvée Thomas" 2024 is a fresh, refined and beautifully energetic white Burgundy from Domaine Vincent Latour, the historic Meursault estate run by Vincent Latour and his wife, Cécile. Formerly known as Domaine Latour-Labille, the domaine dates back to 1792 and is known for producing Chardonnay that combines texture and generosity with freshness, tension and precision.

This cuvée comes from a small 0.214-hectare vineyard parcel known as Le Village, planted in 1989. The vineyards of Saint-Aubin generally sit around 100 meters higher in elevation than Meursault, helping to preserve freshness and acidity while contributing to the lively, mineral character that makes the appellation increasingly sought after by Burgundy lovers.

The wine is fermented and aged on the lees in one- and two-year-old demi-muids, allowing it to develop texture and complexity without excessive oak influence. The cuvée is named after Vincent Latour’s son, Thomas, giving this bottling a particularly personal connection to the domaine.

The 2024 Cuvée Thomas is expressive and vibrant, showing aromas of fresh citrus, green and yellow apple, white flowers and subtle stone fruit. The palate is focused and energetic, with bright acidity, a finely textured mid-palate and a distinctly mineral edge.

As the wine opens, delicate notes of lemon zest, pear, white peach and subtle savory spice emerge, while the higher-elevation terroir keeps the wine fresh and lifted. The finish is clean, persistent and precise, with an appealing balance of fruit, texture and tension.

Saint-Aubin has become one of the Côte de Beaune’s most exciting sources of high-quality Chardonnay, offering much of the character and complexity associated with its famous neighbors while often delivering exceptional value. Cuvée Thomas is a particularly elegant example, combining mature vines, careful élevage and the natural freshness of its elevated vineyard site.

Producer: Domaine Vincent Latour
Grape: Chardonnay
Region: Côte de Beaune, Burgundy, France
Appellation: Saint-Aubin
Cuvée: Cuvée Thomas
Vineyard: Le Village
Vintage: 2024
Parcel Size: Approximately 0.214 hectare
Vine Age: Planted in 1989
Élevage: Fermented and aged on the lees in one- and two-year-old demi-muids
Bottle Size: 750ml

Pairing: Excellent with grilled fish, scallops, oysters, roast chicken, herb-roasted poultry, creamy seafood dishes, goat cheese, Comté and lighter mushroom preparations.

Howard Park is a pioneering family-owned winery with over 35 years of history crafting wines from two of Western Australia's premier regions: Margaret River and the Great Southern. Founded by John Wade, who recognized the enormous potential of these emerging wine regions, Howard Park has always aspired to produce wines of generational cellaring potential and uncompromising terroir expression. Today, the winery remains family-owned and continues to set the benchmark for Western Australian fine wine.

The Miamup Chardonnay is sourced from Margaret River — Australia's most celebrated region for Chardonnay, where the maritime climate, ancient gravelly loam soils, and long, temperate growing season produce white wines of exceptional freshness, precision, and natural balance. The Miamup label represents Howard Park's approachable, fruit-forward tier: wines crafted with freshness and drinkability at their core, without sacrificing the quality and terroir integrity the estate is known for.

Vinification is focused on preserving the natural vibrancy and citrus-driven character of the Margaret River Chardonnay. Careful temperature-controlled fermentation, lees contact for texture, and minimal intervention allow the fruit and the region to speak clearly in the glass.

The 2024 Miamup Chardonnay opens with fresh, citrus-driven aromas of lemon peel, grapefruit, and orange blossom, with a touch of flint and reductive complexity. On the palate, the wine is midweight with lively acidity, generous texture, and notes of white stone fruit, ginger cream, and nutty lees. Bright and linear, with a clean, refreshing finish lifted by crisp acidity.

"Fresh, citrus-driven aromas of lemon peel, grapefruit, orange blossoms and flint. The midweight palate has lively acidity and a generous texture. Bright and linear with a nice reductive touch in the finish."
— Wine Spectator, 91 Points. (Vintage 2024). 

"A no-nonsense drink, as in it's made with freshness and drinkability in mind. It meets the brief well. Some citrus and white stone fruit, ginger cream, and nutty lees add texture, with acidity lifting the finish and keeping the palate fresh."
— Australian Wine Companion, 90 Points. (Vintage 2024). 

Grape: Chardonnay
Region: Margaret River, Western Australia
Vintage: 2024
Bottle Size: 750ml

Pairing: Grilled fish, roast chicken, scallops, creamy pasta, soft cheeses, and light seafood dishes.

Produced from 100% Chardonnay, this refined white Burgundy comes from Les Champs Gains, a highly regarded Premier Cru vineyard situated high on the slope above Les Folatières in Puligny-Montrachet. The vineyard’s name translates to “fields reclaimed from the forest,” reflecting land that was historically cleared for cultivation.

The elevated, cool site lies approximately 340 to 360 meters above sea level. Its stony clay-limestone soils contain abundant pebbles and relatively little clay, contributing freshness, vibrant acidity and a distinctly mineral character. The domaine’s mature vines bring added concentration, depth and complexity to the wine.

The 2023 vintage opens with fresh, bright aromas of orchard fruit, citrus and delicate white flowers. The palate is fine-boned, precise and tightly woven, offering lively citrus fruit, refreshing acidity and an elegant mineral core. Subtle toasted notes from restrained oak aging add complexity without obscuring the wine’s purity. The finish is long, balanced and beautifully focused, suggesting excellent potential for further development in the bottle.

Following whole-cluster pressing and a period of settling, fermentation takes place with natural yeasts. The wine is matured for approximately eleven months in barrel, including 25–30% new oak, followed by an additional period in stainless-steel tanks. Bâtonnage is avoided, helping preserve the wine’s freshness, clarity and individual expression of terroir.

The Chavy family has cultivated vineyards in Puligny-Montrachet for more than two centuries. Today, Jean-Louis Chavy and his son Paul continue the family’s six-generation tradition, producing Chardonnay recognized for its elegance, precision, balance and clear expression of Puligny-Montrachet’s limestone-rich soils.

• Grape: 100% Chardonnay
• Country: France
• Region: Burgundy
• Subregion: Côte de Beaune
• Appellation: Puligny-Montrachet Premier Cru
• Vineyard: Les Champs Gains
• Classification: Premier Cru
• Vine Age: Mature vines, approximately 40 to 50 years old
• Altitude: Approximately 340–360 meters
• Soil: Stony clay-limestone with abundant pebbles
• Vinification: Whole-cluster pressed and fermented with natural yeasts
• Aging: Approximately 11 months in barrel, including 25–30% new oak, followed by stainless-steel maturation
• Alcohol: Approximately 13%
• Style: Dry, floral, precise and mineral-driven white Burgundy
• Cellaring: Enjoyable young, with approximately 7–8 years of aging potential
• Serving Temperature: Approximately 50–55°F

Food Pairings: An elegant companion to oysters, scallops, lobster, grilled or roasted fish, roast chicken, veal, creamy mushroom dishes, Comté and other mild Alpine cheeses.

Domaine J-L & F Chavy Puligny-Montrachet Premier Cru Les Champs Gains 2023

Produced from 100% Chardonnay, this distinguished white Burgundy comes from Les Clavoillons, a Premier Cru vineyard situated in the heart of Puligny-Montrachet. The vineyard lies between Les Pucelles to the south and Les Folatières to the north, placing it among some of the appellation’s most celebrated Chardonnay terroirs.

The approximately 40-year-old vines are planted at an elevation of about 230 meters, with a southeast-facing exposure and chalky limestone soils containing a higher proportion of clay. This lower-slope location gives Les Clavoillons a character that is typically richer and rounder than Puligny-Montrachet vineyards situated higher on the hillside, while retaining the appellation’s signature freshness and mineral precision.

The elegant 2023 vintage opens with aromas of lime blossom, fresh citrus, white peach and crisp apple. The palate is graceful and beautifully balanced, offering a creamy texture supported by fine acidity and a distinct mineral backbone. As the wine unfolds, delicate notes of baking spice and toasted brioche emerge, adding complexity to the long, refined finish.

The Chavy family has lived and worked in Puligny-Montrachet for more than two centuries. Jean-Louis Chavy established his own domaine in 2004 and today farms nearly seven hectares, including prized Premier Cru parcels in Les Clavoillons, Les Folatières, Les Champs Gains and Les Perrières. His wines are known for their purity, elegance and restrained use of oak, allowing each vineyard’s individual character to remain at the forefront.

• Grape: 100% Chardonnay
• Country: France
• Region: Burgundy
• Subregion: Côte de Beaune
• Appellation: Puligny-Montrachet Premier Cru
• Vineyard: Les Clavoillons
• Classification: Premier Cru
• Vine Age: Approximately 40 years
• Altitude: Approximately 230 meters
• Exposure: Southeast
• Soil: Chalky limestone with a higher concentration of clay
• Alcohol: Approximately 13%
• Style: Dry, elegant, creamy and mineral-driven white Burgundy
• Serving Temperature: Approximately 50–55°F

Food Pairings: An excellent match for oysters, raw seafood, grilled fish, scallops, lobster, roast poultry, veal, creamy mushroom dishes and mild Alpine cheeses.

Domaine J-L & F Chavy Puligny-Montrachet Premier Cru Les Clavoillons 2023

92 Points - Wine Spectator
89-91 Points - Jasper Morris MW, Inside Burgundy

Two vineyards. Two soils. One seamless expression of Meursault. Domaine Clos de la Chapelle's 2023 Cuvee Confluence draws from En Marcausse and Les Vignes Blanches, contiguous lieux-dits whose contrasting geology gives this village-level Chardonnay a complexity that rivals many a Premier Cru. Clay-driven richness meets limestone-driven tension, and the result is a white Burgundy of genuine depth, harmony and length.

The Place

Meursault occupies the heart of the Cote de Beaune, flanked by Volnay to the north and Puligny-Montrachet to the south. It is one of Burgundy's most celebrated white-wine villages, internationally recognized for Chardonnay that combines generous orchard fruit, hazelnut complexity and a pronounced limestone-derived mineral character with vibrant, food-friendly acidity.

Although Meursault has no Grand Cru vineyards, its finest Premier Cru and village-level climats produce some of Burgundy's most distinctive and age-worthy whites. The appellation encompasses approximately 382.64 hectares of white-wine production, including 103.79 hectares of Premier Cru, planted predominantly to Chardonnay in a complex mosaic of limestone, marl, clay and gravel.

The Meaning of Cuvee Confluence

The name Confluence speaks to a meeting of opposites: old vines and young, two adjoining vineyards, two distinct but complementary terroirs. Although En Marcausse and Les Vignes Blanches share a boundary, the soil composition shifts noticeably at the point where one vineyard meets the other, and it is precisely this contrast that defines the wine.

The Vineyards

En Marcausse lies immediately below Les Petits Charrons on the Meursault slope. Natural drainage is encouraged by a break in the topography, while the vineyard's higher clay content contributes body, texture and breadth to the finished wine. The domaine farms approximately 0.20 hectare here.

Les Vignes Blanches takes its name from the pale, gravelly limestone that characterizes the site. These chalkier soils deliver greater mineral tension, freshness and precision. The domaine holds approximately 0.41 hectare, farmed from both younger and older vines. For the 2023 vintage, Jasper Morris noted that a section previously planted to Pinot Noir has been top-grafted to Chardonnay, a change that will further strengthen the domaine's white-wine holdings from 2025 onward.

The Grape: 100% Chardonnay

Chardonnay is uniquely sensitive to variations in soil, elevation and exposure. In the limestone and clay soils of Meursault, it produces wines of generous orchard-fruit character, citrus freshness, hazelnut complexity and a distinct mineral or saline undertone. In Cuvee Confluence, it expresses both sides of the blend simultaneously: the rounded texture and ripeness of clay-rich En Marcausse, and the citrus-driven freshness and chalky tension of Les Vignes Blanches.

Viticulture and Winemaking

Domaine Clos de la Chapelle's vineyards are certified organic and cultivated according to biodynamic principles. Soils are worked regularly, chemical pesticides and fertilizers are avoided, and yields are carefully controlled to encourage concentration and a clear expression of each individual site.

Grapes are harvested by hand and carefully sorted. Vinification is conducted with minimal intervention, allowing the contrasting personalities of En Marcausse and Les Vignes Blanches to remain visible in the finished wine. Fermentation and maturation in oak barrels add texture and complexity, with restrained notes of toast, vanilla and spice that integrate into rather than dominate the wine's fruit and mineral core.

Tasting Notes

The 2023 Cuvee Confluence opens with aromas of ripe peach, yellow apple and pear, lifted by citrus peel, white flowers, toasted hazelnut and a delicate oak influence. The palate is supple, juicy and harmonious, with flavors of peach, apple tart and ripe citrus framed by oyster-shell salinity and finely integrated toasted oak. The clay-rich component contributes roundness and depth; the limestone soils bring acidity, mineral tension and focus. Subtle notes of vanilla, butterscotch and hazelnut emerge toward the finish. Despite its generous fruit and texture, the wine remains fresh and balanced, concluding with impressive harmony, mineral persistence and length.

Professional Ratings

92 Points - Wine Spectator: This beautifully integrated white features peach, apple tart and oyster shell flavors framed with toasty oak. Supple and juicy, this ends with echoes of vanilla and butterscotch. Shows excellent harmony and length.

89-91 Points - Jasper Morris MW, Inside Burgundy (Barrel Sample): The Cuvee Confluence comes from the top of Vignes Blanches and Marcausses, where the pinot part has now been top-grafted to chardonnay (which will really deliver from 2025). Mid lemon yellow. A pleasing fruit on the cusp between white and yellow, decent acidity, some length, not quite the flow which gave me such pleasure in the Vignes Blanches.

The Domaine

Domaine Clos de la Chapelle is a small, historic Cote de Beaune estate based in Bligny-les-Beaune, closely associated with the renowned village of Volnay. It takes its name from the Volnay Premier Cru Clos de la Chapelle monopole, a walled vineyard situated opposite the historic chapel of Notre Dame de Pitie, acquired in 2011 and renamed in honor of its flagship terroir.

Today the estate farms approximately five hectares across 16 individual terroirs in Volnay, Pommard, Beaune, Pernand-Vergelesses, Meursault and Corton. All vineyards are certified organic and farmed biodynamically. Grapes are harvested by hand, yields are kept low and cellar intervention is minimized. Total production averages only approximately 1,800 cases annually, making each bottling highly limited.

Food Pairing

Cuvee Confluence is an excellent partner for roast chicken, sole meuniere, halibut with brown butter, sea bass, scallops and lobster ravioli. It also pairs beautifully with creamy mushroom dishes, risotto, pork tenderloin, veal in a light cream sauce and mature cheeses such as Comte or Gruyere.

Serving and Cellaring

Serve at approximately 16 degrees C (61 degrees F). Slightly cooler service will emphasize citrus and mineral character; allowing the wine to warm gradually in the glass will reveal additional texture, hazelnut and oak-spice complexity. The 2023 is expressive enough to enjoy young with a little air, but its acidity and mineral structure should support several years of further development in the cellar.

Producer: Domaine Clos de la Chapelle
Country: France
Region: Burgundy
Subregion: Cote de Beaune
Village: Meursault
Appellation: Meursault AOC
Classification: Village
Cuvee: Cuvee Confluence
Vineyard Sources: En Marcausse and Les Vignes Blanches
Source Parcels: Approximately 0.61 hectare combined
Grape: 100% Chardonnay
Soils: Clay-rich (En Marcausse); pale gravelly limestone (Les Vignes Blanches)
Farming: Certified organic; biodynamic principles
Harvest: Hand harvested
Wine Type: Dry white wine
Bottle Size: 750ml

Francis Ford Coppola Diamond Collection Chardonnay 2024

Francis Ford Coppola Winery has long been a standard-bearer for approachable, expressive California wines. The Diamond Collection — named for the director's four Academy Awards — represents the winery's commitment to quality across a range of varietals and appellations. This Chardonnay draws from the cool, wind-swept vineyards of the Santa Lucia Highlands, a region celebrated for producing whites of exceptional depth and natural acidity.

The 2024 vintage benefits from the Highlands' signature growing conditions: morning fog rolling in from Monterey Bay, afternoon coastal breezes, and well-draining hillside soils. Together, these elements create a long, even growing season that allows fruit to develop remarkable intensity while retaining freshness and balance.

Pale gold in the glass, the wine delivers a rich, creamy texture with lush impressions of ripe apple, pear, and toasted oak. The palate is generous yet balanced, with a smooth finish and impeccable structure. A versatile, crowd-pleasing Chardonnay that overdelivers at its price point.

Wine Enthusiast — 87 pts

Varietal: Chardonnay
Appellation: Santa Lucia Highlands, California
Vintage: 2024
Format: 750ml
Score: 87 pts — Wine Enthusiast

Domaine Michel Niellon | Chassagne-Montrachet | Burgundy, France | 2023

One of Chassagne-Montrachet's most trusted names, Michel Niellon has long produced village-level whites of uncommon precision and depth. The 2023 vintage brings a ripe yet fresh expression of the appellation — orchard fruit, white flowers, and hazelnut on the nose, followed by yellow apple, lemon curd, and flint on the palate. The texture is rounded and polished, balanced by underlying freshness and chalky lift. A wine of aromatic depth and quiet authority.

Tasting Notes

Pear and apple compote, citrus confit, rosemary oil. Punchy and delicious flavors with a clean, dry, and refreshing finish. A few years of cellaring will reward patience.

Critical Acclaim

Burghound 88 Points — Allen Meadows
"A ripe but agreeably fresh and layered nose reflects notes of pear and apple compote, citrus confit and a suggestion of rosemary oil. The punchy and delicious, if not especially dense, flavors also conclude in a clean, dry and refreshing finale. This could use better depth so a few years of cellaring should prove to be beneficial."

• Appellation: Chassagne-Montrachet, Côte de Beaune, Burgundy
• Grape: Chardonnay
• Vintage: 2023
• Format: 750ml
• Producer: Domaine Michel Niellon

Domaine Michel Niellon · Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru · Les Chaumées – Clos de la Truffière · Burgundy · 2023

Domaine Michel Niellon is one of Chassagne-Montrachet’s most revered addresses — a small, meticulous family estate that has farmed its premier cru parcels for generations with an unwavering commitment to terroir expression over winemaking intervention. Les Chaumées – Clos de la Truffière is among the domaine’s most prized holdings: a monopole planted with ancient vines, some more than a century old, set very high on the slope where the combination of altitude, old vine concentration, and Chassagne’s signature limestone soils produces Chardonnay of extraordinary tension and longevity. The 2023 earned 96 points from Charles Curtis MW at Decanter — a wine built for the cellar and the ages.

The 2023 opens with pronounced ripe fruit aromas of lemon peel, nectarine, and gooseberry, edged with saline minerality. The texture is impressively fresh for the vintage — lilting and silky — with marvellous concentration and great tension on the palate. A wine of rare substance and precision, it will benefit from a decade in the cellar and has the structure to drink beautifully for several decades after that.

“Pronounced ripe fruit aromas of lemon peel, nectarine and gooseberry, with an edge of saline minerality. The texture is impressively fresh for the vintage, with a lilting, silky texture, marvellous concentration and great tension on the palate. The grapes are from ancient vines, some more than a century old, planted very high on the slope. This will benefit from a decade in the cellar, but it has the substance to drink for several decades after that.”
— Charles Curtis MW, Decanter · 96 Points

• Producer: Domaine Michel Niellon, Chassagne-Montrachet, Burgundy, France
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru
• Climat: Les Chaumées – Clos de la Truffière (monopole)
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Vines: Ancient vines, some 100+ years old; high on the slope
• Style: Dry white — mineral, concentrated, exceptional tension
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Lemon peel, nectarine, gooseberry, saline minerality, silky texture, great concentration and tension
• Cellar: Drink 2033–2050+
• Pairings: Lobster, turbot, Dover sole, scallops, white truffle dishes, aged Comté

Decanter 96 · Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru — century-old vines, monopole climat, and a decade or more of cellaring ahead. One of Burgundy’s most compelling 2023s.

Lewis Cellars Chardonnay Russian River Valley — Sonoma County 2023

Lewis Cellars is one of Napa and Sonoma’s most celebrated producers of opulent, barrel-fermented Chardonnay — and the Russian River Valley bottling is the more feminine, floral counterpart to their Napa expression. The Russian River Valley is defined by its proximity to the Pacific: morning fog, cool afternoons, and salty ocean air that slow ripening and impart a distinctive floral aromatic quality and subtle minerality that sets this appellation apart. The 2023 growing season was one of the longest of the past decade — mild, consistently sunny weather promoted even ripening with exceptional complexity. Lewis waited until late September to begin harvest, picking the last fruit in the second week of November, allowing prolonged hang time for maximal flavor development. The wine is fully barrel-fermented with native yeast and undergoes 100% malolactic conversion in French oak — the Lewis signature.

The color is a luminous golden straw. The nose is rich and captivating: sweet jasmine, roasted pear, popcorn, caramel, cinnamon, and citrus blossom, with a whisper of salty Pacific air. On the palate, it is full-bodied, broad, and richly textured — pear syrup, lemon cream, apple chutney, flaky pastry, and Meyer lemon curd, with rocky minerality and barrel spice woven through a long, succulent, and elegant finish. Vibrant and elevated on entry, graceful and complex through the mid-palate, and deliciously succulent on the landing.

Expert Reviews

James Suckling — 94 Points
“This full-bodied, soft and rich wine drips with pear-syrup and lemon-cream flavors. Fully barrel-fermented with native yeast and 100% malolactic, it feels broad and melted, tasting ultraripe, almost sweet. Great wine if you like this style. Drink or hold.”

Wine Enthusiast — 92 Points
“Big, rich aromas of popcorn, roasted pear, caramel, and cinnamon waft on the nose. The palate is broad and richly textured, with flavors of apple chutney, flaky pastry, rocky minerality, barrel spice, and citrus blossoms, with echoes of cinnamon and Meyer lemon curd through the finish.”

• Producer: Lewis Cellars, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Russian River Valley
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Vinification: Fully barrel-fermented with native yeast, 100% malolactic conversion, French oak
• Harvest: Late September – second week of November (extended hang time)
• Style: Rich, opulent, floral, cool-climate Russian River Chardonnay
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Jasmine, roasted pear, caramel, lemon cream, apple chutney, Meyer lemon curd, rocky minerality, salty Pacific air
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or hold 3–5 years
• Best Paired With: Lobster, crab, roast chicken, creamy pasta, soft-ripened cheeses, scallops

Russian River Chardonnay at its most lush and expressive — Lewis Cellars 2023 is the Pacific Coast in a glass.

From one of the pioneering wineries of the Russian River Valley, Davis Bynum River West Vineyard Chardonnay 2023 captures the richness and elegance that have made this region one of California's premier homes for Chardonnay. Sourced from the acclaimed River West Vineyard, this beautifully balanced wine combines vibrant fruit, refreshing acidity, and refined texture. 

The nose opens with expressive aromas of Gala apple, ripe nectarine, lemon peel, and toasted hazelnut, accented by delicate hints of citrus blossom and vanilla. On the palate, layers of orchard fruit and bright citrus unfold across a rich, textured mouthfeel. Fresh acidity provides lift and energy, while subtle oak influence adds complexity without overwhelming the wine's natural fruit character. The finish is long and polished, with lingering notes of salted lemon, pineapple, and baking spice.

A versatile and food-friendly Chardonnay, this Russian River Valley bottling pairs beautifully with roast chicken, grilled salmon, lobster, crab cakes, creamy pasta dishes, and aged cheeses.

Wine Enthusiast – 92 Points
"Aromas of Gala apple, nectarine, toasted hazelnut and lemon peel drive the nose of this acid-forward Chardonnay. The palate gives rich, pithy texture and sunny flavors of tart pineapple and citrus blossom, with salty lemon lingering on the finish." — Tom R. Capo

Tasting Notes

• Aromas: Gala apple, nectarine, lemon peel, toasted hazelnut
• Palate: Tart pineapple, citrus blossom, orchard fruit, subtle vanilla
• Body: Medium to full-bodied
• Style: Rich, vibrant, and beautifully balanced
• Finish: Long, fresh, and mineral-driven with lingering citrus notes

An elegant Russian River Valley Chardonnay that delivers both richness and precision, showcasing the distinctive character of one of California's most celebrated wine regions.

Vinous 90 Points: The 2023 Chardonnay Central Coast opens with a honeyed bouquet of wild flowers, ginger shavings and freshly sliced nectarines. This sweeps across the palate with ease, clean and bright, with vivid green apple fruit. It leaves the senses pleasantly refreshed as nuances of chamomile fade.

Crafted in a bright, fruit-driven style that showcases the best of California Chardonnay, Justin Winery Chardonnay Sonoma County 2023 offers remarkable balance, freshness, and approachability. Sourced from select vineyard sites, this expressive white wine opens with inviting aromas of ripe pear, golden apple, honeydew melon, and citrus blossom, complemented by subtle notes of vanilla, baking spice, and toasted brioche.

On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied and beautifully textured, delivering layers of juicy orchard fruit, lemon curd, and stone fruit flavors supported by lively acidity and a gentle touch of oak. The finish is clean, refreshing, and persistent, making it an exceptionally versatile Chardonnay for both casual enjoyment and food pairing.

Elegant yet accessible, this Sonoma County Chardonnay pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled seafood, creamy pasta dishes, crab cakes, lobster, and mild cheeses.

Tasting Notes

• Aromas: Pear, golden apple, citrus blossom, melon, vanilla
• Palate: Apple, peach, lemon curd, baking spice, subtle oak
• Body: Medium-bodied
• Style: Fresh, balanced, fruit-forward Chardonnay
• Finish: Clean, bright, and lingering

A polished and crowd-pleasing California Chardonnay that delivers exceptional value and everyday drinkability.

Welcome to Chardonnay

Winemaker Description

Barkan Classic Chardonnay is produced from grapes grown at the winery's vineyards in the center of Israel. The vines yield small crops and ripen early. Hand picked in small containers, the grapes are rushed to the winery to ensure maximum quality.

The wine ferments slowly at cool temperatures and yields a wine with a rich nose of blueberries, guava, and pears. It is well structured, balanced and lingers in the mouth.

Ideal with poultry and hard cheese.

A Taste of Excellence

Welcome to Chardonnay, where each sip of Barkan Chardonnay Classic Kosher 2024 reveals a symphony of flavors. This exquisite wine is carefully crafted to deliver notes of ripe apples and tropical fruits, providing a refreshing experience. The smooth finish makes it a perfect choice for both casual gatherings and special occasions. You will not only enjoy its taste but also appreciate its quality, as it is produced under strict kosher guidelines.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This 375ml half-bottle of Barkan Chardonnay is ideal for intimate dinners or personal enjoyment. Whether you are pairing it with seafood, light pasta dishes, or cheese platters, it is versatile enough to complement various cuisines. Many appreciate its balance of acidity and sweetness, making it a delightful companion for food. Because of its elegant packaging, it also makes a wonderful gift for friends and family.

Why Choose Barkan Chardonnay?

So why choose Barkan Chardonnay? This wine stands out because of its commitment to quality and kosher certification. Each bottle captures the essence of the vineyard, allowing you to savor the true taste of Chardonnay. You can feel confident in serving a wine that not only pleases the palate but also adheres to dietary traditions. With Barkan Chardonnay, you are choosing a wine that is both delicious and meaningful.

Winemaker Description

This Premier Cru displays a crisp, mineral-driven profile characterized by notes of citrus, green apple, and subtle floral hints, with a refreshing acidity that balances its complexity. Sourced from the Montmains Premier Cru site — known for its stony Kimmeridgian soils and excellent sun exposure — this is a classic expression of Chablis: precise, taut, and unmistakably Burgundian.

About Les Marronniers

Les Marronniers is a respected Chablis producer with deep roots in the appellation, farming vineyards on the region’s distinctive Kimmeridgian limestone and clay soils — the ancient marine sediment that gives Chablis its signature minerality and saline character. Their Premier Cru Montmains is sourced from one of Chablis’ most celebrated Premier Cru sites, situated on the left bank of the Serein River with ideal south-southwest exposure. Certified Kosher for Passover and Mevushal, this wine brings the full character of Chablis Premier Cru to the kosher table without compromise.

About Montmains

Montmains is one of the largest and most highly regarded Premier Cru sites in Chablis, located on the left bank of the Serein River. Its stony, Kimmeridgian soils — composed of ancient oyster fossils, limestone, and clay — are the geological foundation of Chablis’ distinctive mineral character. Wines from Montmains are known for their structure, depth, and the classic “Chablis funk”: a stony, saline, almost oyster-shell quality that sets them apart from any other Chardonnay in the world.

Food Pairings

Oysters, grilled fish, steamed lobster, shrimp, sushi, grilled scallops, soft ripened cheeses, and light poultry dishes. A natural match for Shabbat fish courses and holiday tables. The quintessential wine for oysters.

Product Details

• Producer: Les Marronniers
• Appellation: Chablis Premier Cru, Burgundy, France
• Vineyard: Montmains Premier Cru
• Grape: Chardonnay
• Soils: Kimmeridgian limestone and clay
• Certification: Kosher for Passover, Mevushal
• Vintage: 2023
• Style: Crisp, mineral, structured Chablis Premier Cru
• Format: 750ml

Welcome to Chardonnay

Winemaker Description

Barkan Classic Chardonnay is produced from grapes grown at the winery's vineyards in the center of Israel. The vines yield small crops and ripen early. Hand picked in small containers, the grapes are rushed to the winery to ensure maximum quality.

The wine ferments slowly at cool temperatures and yields a wine with a rich nose of blueberries, guava, and pears. It is well structured, balanced and lingers in the mouth.

Ideal with poultry and hard cheese.

A Taste of Excellence

Welcome to Chardonnay, where each sip of Barkan Chardonnay Classic Kosher 2024 reveals a symphony of flavors. This exquisite wine is carefully crafted to deliver notes of ripe apples and tropical fruits, providing a refreshing experience. The smooth finish makes it a perfect choice for both casual gatherings and special occasions. You will not only enjoy its taste but also appreciate its quality, as it is produced under strict kosher guidelines.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This 375ml half-bottle of Barkan Chardonnay is ideal for intimate dinners or personal enjoyment. Whether you are pairing it with seafood, light pasta dishes, or cheese platters, it is versatile enough to complement various cuisines. Many appreciate its balance of acidity and sweetness, making it a delightful companion for food. Because of its elegant packaging, it also makes a wonderful gift for friends and family.

Why Choose Barkan Chardonnay?

So why choose Barkan Chardonnay? This wine stands out because of its commitment to quality and kosher certification. Each bottle captures the essence of the vineyard, allowing you to savor the true taste of Chardonnay. You can feel confident in serving a wine that not only pleases the palate but also adheres to dietary traditions. With Barkan Chardonnay, you are choosing a wine that is both delicious and meaningful.