Bourgogne, known for its world-renowned red wines, also offers a range of elegant white wines that embody the region’s terroir and complexity. While red wines from Bourgogne often come with high price tags, white wines from the region provide a more affordable alternative while still showcasing the same level of sophistication and quality.
Stretching from Chablis in the north to Mâcon in the south, Bourgogne is a diverse wine region with a variety of climates and soils that contribute to the wide range of wine styles produced in the area. While Chardonnay is the dominant white grape variety in Bourgogne, other grapes are also experimented with, resulting in wines that range from lean and mineral-driven to rich and buttery.
The Elegance of White Bourgogne Wines
White Bourgogne wines are known for their versatility, expression of terroir, and subtle complexity. These wines typically display aromas of citrus, white flowers, and stone fruits, with a refreshing acidity and sometimes a hint of oak. They are well-balanced, offering refined minerality and delicate fruits that make them perfect for pairing with food or enjoying on their own.
1. **Benjamin Laroche Chablis 1er Cru Montmains 2020**: This wine captures the essence of the region’s limestone-rich soils, with a bouquet of white flowers, pear, and subtle toastiness. It offers a balance of white fruit and rich minerality, making it an ideal choice for seafood pairings.
2. **Francois Martenot Crémant**: A sparkling alternative to Champagne, this Crémant from Bourgogne is pale yellow with delicate fruit and blossom aromas. It is fresh, lively, and full-bodied, making it a perfect aperitif.
3. **Louis Latour Chardonnay 2019**: This expressive Chardonnay from Louis Latour features floral notes, green apple, white peach, and almond flavors. It is beautifully structured, making it an excellent introduction to premium white wines from Bourgogne.
4. **Moillard-Thomas Aligoté 2022**: Showcasing the potential of Aligoté, this wine offers vibrant citrus flavors with bright acidity and balance. It is a characterful wine that makes for a great gift.
5. **Dominic Hentall Bourgogne Saint Veran 2021**: A high-quality Chardonnay that doesn’t break the bank, this wine features ripe apricot flavors and subtle oak notes. It is perfect for pairing with flavorful dishes.
6. **Louis Jadot Chablis Cellier du Valvan 2022**: This Chablis from Louis Jadot is elegant and precise, with aromas of musk, white flowers, and melon. It has a stony minerality and a long finish that sets it apart.
7. **Adnams White Burgundy**: An unoaked Chardonnay from the Mâcon region, this wine evolves throughout the year, starting fresh and zesty with notes of white peaches and lemon before developing into a richer, tropical profile.
White Bourgogne wines offer a unique and elegant expression of the region’s terroir and complexity. From Chardonnay to Aligoté, these wines are perfect for both casual sippers and serious connoisseurs, providing a delightful drinking experience that can be enjoyed on any occasion. Whether you are discovering Bourgogne wines for the first time or are already a fan, exploring the diverse range of white wines the region has to offer is a journey worth taking.