This is one I’d been meaning to try after it picked up a Gold at the recent International Wine Challenge. It’s part of my ongoing awards25 series and is made by the highly respected La Chablisienne Cooperative. The wine comes from Premier Cru vineyards in northern Burgundy and is made entirely from Chardonnay grapes, with some time spent in French oak barrels. This particular bottle is the 2022 vintage and sits at 12.5% ABV.
Straight from the fridge, there’s a touch of almond on the aroma, which is quite delicate. The oak influence is subtle and nicely judged, adding just a bit of depth alongside a soft apricot-like character. Give it at least twenty minutes to open up at room temperature and the wine really comes into its own. Lots more fruit comes through, with apple and citrus notes joined by a faint honeyed character.
The texture is creamy and smooth without tipping into heaviness. There’s a lovely balance here, it’s full and complete, with enough freshness to keep things lively. While I didn’t find as much of the mineral side that I’d usually associate with a wine from this region, it still shows clarity and precision. The finish is impressively long and the feeling of quality holds up even as it warms further.
It’s a versatile wine and I imagine it would be particularly good with roast chicken or creamy dishes. At £24 it might feel on the higher end for something from Tesco, but you are paying for Premier Cru quality, and in this case, the price reflects that standard. During the regular 25% off offers, when it drops to £18, it’s a genuine bargain.
