Presentation
En Chatenay Les Héritiers du Comte Lafon 2022 is a refined white Burgundy that perfectly illustrates the precision and purity sought by the estate in its village parcels. Coming from the Mâconnais hillsides, this cuvée offers a crystalline, terroir-driven expression of Chardonnay, balancing freshness, aromatic finesse and a silky texture. It is a wine for enthusiasts who appreciate Burgundy whites that are both approachable in their youth and capable of gaining complexity over a few years of cellaring. The style is resolutely focused on elegance, tension and length on the palate rather than opulence.
Origin and Winemaking
-
The terroir of En Chatenay is located in southern Burgundy, on stony limestone-clay soils typical of the region, with well-exposed slopes that promote optimal ripening while preserving good natural acidity. This combination gives the wines both structure and a saline, mineral backbone.
-
The wine is made from 100% Chardonnay, the emblematic grape variety of white Burgundy. Here it expresses its most precise profile: fresh fruit, floral nuances and a subtle touch of brioche, without heaviness.
-
Vinification generally favors gentle pressing, fermentation in vats and barrels, and élevage on fine lees to bring volume and complexity. The estate is known for its meticulous work and respect for the fruit, with measured use of oak so as not to dominate the identity of the terroir.
Tasting
-
Appearance
Pale lemon color with green highlights, clear and bright, showing its youth and freshness, with fine, regular legs.
-
Nose
Delicate aromas of white flowers, citrus zest, fresh pear and apple, complemented by subtle notes of almond, butter and chalky minerality. With aeration, more complex hints of pastry and light hazelnut may emerge.
-
Palate
Lively and precise attack, carried by a juicy acidity. The mid-palate is ample yet finely chiseled, with flavors of lemon, ripe stone fruit and a saline touch that stretches the finish. The oak, if present, remains discreet, bringing texture and a gentle spicy note without overshadowing the purity of the fruit.
Food Pairings & Moments
-
Ideal pairings include:
- seafood platters, oysters, and shellfish,
- grilled or poached fish with citrus or beurre blanc sauces,
- poultry in cream sauce, veal blanquette,
- goat cheeses or soft-rind cheeses.
-
This cuvée is perfect for an aperitif with discerning friends, a refined dinner centered on seafood, or as a highlight during a vertical tasting of white Burgundies to explore different terroirs and vintages.
Cellaring Potential and Serving
-
The optimal drinking window begins around 2024 to allow the aromas to harmonize, and continues comfortably for several years.
-
The wine can generally be cellared for 5 to 8 years from the vintage, depending on storage conditions, during which it will develop notes of honey, dried fruit and brioche while retaining its backbone.
-
Serve at a temperature of 10–12°C, in a tulip-shaped white wine glass, after a brief opening in the glass or a short decanting for the first years of its life to fully reveal the complexity of En Chatenay Les Héritiers du Comte Lafon 2022.
