Region: Burgundy, France

Varietal: 100% Chardonnay

Tasting notes: From two well sited vineyards in La Roche Vineuse and Chaintre, this is a clear and sunny white Burgundy. A lovely citrus and floral bouquet. The palate is bright and high-toned with lemon custard undercurrents and nutmeg dusted apples.

Producer: Driven by a tireless hunt for elusive sites where Pinot Noir shines, Maison L'Envoyé traverses the globe with the intention of presenting the acme of regionality and winemaking styles. Originating in Burgundy, they pursued gilded terroir to craft this region's wine trinity: Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Gamay Noir. Yet from this tenor of focus and commitment a global fellowship emerged, with terroir-driven Pinot Noir as the linchpin. Now, with winemaking footprints in Burgundy, Willamette Valley, Tasmania and Central Otago, Maison L'Envoyé champions many unsung growers who have farmed their vineyards for decades and generations, some mere feet away from more illustriously cited neighbors. This project has been a standout since its debut in 2011 including Wine & Spirits naming Maison L'Envoyé a 'Winery To Watch' in 2015.

Vineyard and Winemaking: The Mâconnais district’s 21 mile stretch boasts a geology not dissimilar to the famed Côte de Beaune to its north. Mâcon’s epicenter, Mont de Pouilly, rises gently with alkaline clay covering a stark limestone base, a nirvana for the Chardonnay vines along the river Saône. The vines are traditionally Guyot (cane) pruned and the best vineyards keep yields below three tons per acre. With favorable south east exposures and agreeable weather, the region produces generous, layered whites offering some of the best value in Burgundy.