Cellar Series : White Burgundy

Next up in IWFS Capital Branch’s Cellar Series, we stay in Burgundy – this time, for chardonnay. The grape variety is one of the most popular white varieties in the world. It’s known for being expressive of terroir and versatile enough to deliver crisply refreshing sparkling wines through to big, oaky styles. However, as with all global successes, its ubiquity has been a double-edged sword. While it has showcased an incredible range, familiarity has tended to dampen the excitement factor amongst many wine drinkers.

Still, there is no doubt that, when chardonnay marries itself to the best environment and expert winemakers, it is amongst the most noble of wines – white or red. The global benchmark region remains Bourgogne - its original home, where it's been planted for centuries. Over hundreds of years in regions such as the Cote de Beaune, the Chalonnaise and Maconnais, the grape has found itself planted on the best plots of land and crafted with a deep legacy of elevage. The result has been nuanced, complex and utterly compelling bottles of wine that can age for decades. The most sought-after labels command prices in the tens of thousands of dollars from collectors around the world.

As with the Cellar Series pinot noir session, we will have James Handford, a Master of Wine who specializes in Burgundy, on hand to guide us through seven villages that are best known for producing super premium chardonnay. He will provide context to help us appreciate the differences between them and the elements that deliver a ‘wow’ factor unlike almost any other wine region.

Francois Mikulski, Meursault Premier Cru, Charmes 2021

Domaine Gerard Thomas, Saint-Aubin Premier Cru, Les Murgers des Dents de Chien 2023

Matrot, Puligny-Montrachet Premier Cru, Les Chalumaux 2023

Quentin Jeannot, Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru 2020

Maison Roche de Bellene, Chassagne-Montrachet Premier Cru, Clos Saint-Jean 2022

J. M. Boillot, Montagny Premier Cru 2023

Lavernette, Pouilly-Fuisse, Vers Chane 2022

It promises to be a special evening!

A glass of Cremant de Bourgogne will precede the tasting. A delicious platter of charcuterie, cheeses and bread will accompany the wines.