France: White

Henri Darnat ‘La Jumalie’ Bourgogne Blanc 2017, Burgundy

Marvellous craftsmanship by the Darnat estate with the majority of Chardonnay being fermented in stainless steel to preserve freshness and purity of fruit, while small parcels have been treated separately in oak, adding complexity to the blend. For those less keen on oaked whites, resist the temptation to overlook this stunning wine.

Stewed orchard fruit with notes of toasted almond are balanced with fresh zesty lemon; providing a sterling example of the kind of Bourgogne Blanc that can be found within the Cote de Beaune.

*Incredibly well received by tasters in the following public virtual tasting: ‘Vive la France: Bourgogne’

Vacqueyras Fontimple Blanc 2018, Southern Rhône

It’s a wonder white production in this region is so dramatically overshadowed by reds when this is what can be achieved. A glorious Rhône Blanc! Blended from no less than five principle varieties on various parts of the appellation with different terroirs; including soils with river stones on the surface, zaffer, and deep clay. 

The higher proportion of Viognier in the blend offers notes of stone fruit while the other varieties offer depth and classic Rhone minerality. A wine to dine with and savour, produced by one of the quality lead cooperative in the Southern Rhône.

*This stunning wine featured in the following public virtual tasting: ‘Fine Wine of the Rhône’