A & P de Villaine Bourgogne Côte Chalonnaise Blanc Les Clous Aimé 2021

95 points Decanter: "From the family domaine of Aubert de Villaine who, in 2022, stepped down as co-manager of Domaine de la Romanée Conti after 48 years. In this 2021 vintage wine, instead of being sourced solely from Bouzeron, seven parcels of certified organic, old-vine Chardonnay grown on mainly limestone soils in De Villaine’s home appellation were blended with grapes from the Les SaintJacques vineyard in Rully. Andy Howard MW: Floral, waxy aromas, and a touch of honey. Great balance with concentration and fruit weight, crisp acidity and subtle oak character. Beatrice Bessi: Ripe fruit profile with a layer of smoky, oaky flavours, yet refreshing and vibrant, savoury, leaning on the citrus fruit to lift the texture. Good quality. Georgina Crawley: Creamy nose, very engaging, with hints of lemon verbena adding to pastry and butter. Golden fruit, acacia honey and some lemon and grapefruit bite, with energy and tension. Drinking Window: 2023-2026. (6/6/23)"

Producer notes: "Les Clous Aimé comes from several parcels located on a south-facing slope of Bouzeron's valley, sheltered from summer's north wind during ripening. Our vineyard here is planted with selections of Chardonnay grapes that we have chosen for moderate yields. Les clous Aimé is a vin de garde- it's meant to be aged. It is made from the fruit of old vines on a predominantly limestone terroir, and in its youth displays a pure mineral character. Patience, however, is urged: only after five to seven years does this wine reveal the full scope of its finesse and complexity of aromas. It is a perfect complement to fish and white meats, but avoid sauces that are too spicy. Some recommended cheeses include goat cheese, Reblochon, Beaufort, and Comté."