2023 Bourgogne Blanc, Alain Chavy
2023 was a warm, stable vintage for the Puligny-Montrachet region with the warmth and resulting ripeness of fruit evident in the glass, delivering lovely expressive fruit on both the nose and palate, which has really expanded since my last tasting.
A swish of the glass and enjoy the delicate golden sheen, and deep aromas of ripe orchard fruit, apple and pear skin with a hint of citrus and faint oak warmth that has been further enhanced by time in bottle.
The palate follows the aromas, again fruit-forward and concentrated when I penned my original notes some 12 months ago. That still holds true today, however there's certainly greater expression and depth both aromatically and on the palate than when I first tasted, subtleties previously obscured by that bold fruit entrée. It just goes to show how even a relatively short rest can often be so rewarding.
The palate offers crisp, mature orchard fruit, poached pear and apple evolving to a smooth creaminess on the lengthy dry finish, punctuated with a crisp, freshening streak of minerality.
There's a lovely texture and weight, it has all the hallmarks of a pretty serious white Burgundy, but with only around 10% vinified in older French oak barriques, the supple richness, structure and delightful mouth-feel is really down to the quality of fruit and winemaking talent.
It's another superb wine from Alain Chavy, that continues to evolve elegantly, oozing class and finesse it really encompasses the elegance and charm of the Puligny region, at a very compelling price.
13% ABV | Drink now-2027+
I have to say that this really is a lovely wine and it delivers well above its price bracket. I would recommend it to anyone who likes white Burgundy.