2022 Mercurey Blanc, Château de Chamirey

There's a lovely pale golden hue that greets you upon pouring, with a gentle swish releasing expressive aromas of dried apricot, nectarine, and hints of lemongrass.
 
The palate is wonderfully expressive; exotic fruits mingle with mature orchard fruit, citrus notes, a hint of orange zest, and a creamy richness with notes of butterscotch with a dry, textured mouth feal.
 
Hold for a moment and a gentle nutty/woody warmth reveals itself, it's subtle and in no way intrusive but just adds to the rounded texture, pulling the flavours together and prolonging the finish... Hang on, that's not the finish, there's a touch of poached pear now surfacing... is that it? I think so, but needless to say it's a wonderfully long and complex finish.
 
It's a cracker all by itself, I'd have no trouble enjoying this as a solo glass sat with my feet up in front of the fire, but it would have been a beautiful match to the oozingly ripe brie and possibly even the tangy Époisses that I enjoyed over the festive break. Of course it would undoubtedly be equally impressive alongside roast white meats, mixed charcuterie, even poached salmon, endless options. Delicious.

James Russell-Grant | Mr.Wheeler Wine