Welcome to the Magnificent 2023 Bourgogne Blanc Côte d'Or "Les Parties"
Welcome to the Magnificent 2023 Bourgogne Blanc Côte d'Or "Les Parties"
Nestled just south of the esteemed Puligny-Montrachet appellation, the Domaine Guillemard‑Clerc Bourgogne Blanc “Les Parties” 2023 delivers a compelling slice of Côte d'Or terroir at a regional Burgundy price—approximately $35–37. It offers exceptional value for lovers of Chardonnay who crave purity and minerality without breaking the bank.
Vineyard & Vinification
- Origin: From the Les Parties vineyard, straddling the border of Puligny and the broader Côte d'Or regional appellation.
- Winemaker: Corinne Guillemard‑Clerc—a third‑generation vigneron who has transitioned from grape grower to estate bottler, infusing this wine with real Puligny‑Montrachet soul.
- Cellar Work: Barrel‑fermented and aged—mostly in 1–3‑year‑old barrels with about 1 new barrel—to impart structure and spice, balanced by tanks to preserve freshness.
Tasting Notes
- Appearance: Pale lemon hue; elegant and bright.
- Nose: Inviting layers of green apple, lemon zest, pear, warm spices, and subtle herbal/mineral tones.
- Palate: Medium-bodied with vibrant acidity. Mineral-driven notes—flint, wet stone—interlace with fruit: lemon curd, yellow plum, floweriness, and a touch of oak spice.
- Finish: Crisp and lingering—salty, balanced, and refreshingly structured.
Critical Acclaim
- Vin Chicago (2022 vintage): Awarded a solid 91+ points, praised as “serious mineral intensity with Burgundy flint… crunchy, round and long” Louis Latour+13Vin Chicago+13Delectable+13.
- Waterford Wine review: Highlights its Puligny character—“warm spices, Earl Grey tea, baked goods… powerful, yet focused, precise, graceful” Waterford Wine and Spirits.
- Delectable user ratings: Averaging 8.8–9.1/10, with descriptors like “lemon zest,” “very herbal, crisp,” and “graceful, medium length” Delectable.
Food Pairing & Serving
This wine veers toward classic Côte d'Or style—minerally and structured—and pairs elegantly with:
- Shellfish & seafood (oysters, scallops)
- Roast chicken or turkey in creamy sauce
- Mushrooms, pork, mild game, and cheeses like Gruyère or Manchego
Serve slightly chilled at 50–55°F (10–13°C).
Age-Worthiness
Though delicious now, Les Parties shows an attractive depth and mineral backbone suggesting it can age gracefully. Expect continued evolution of texture and nuance over 3–7 years—likely at its best through 2028.
Why You Should Buy It
- Terroir-rich luxury at a regional price: At ~$35, this offers Puligny‑like sophistication without the cost.
- Balanced cellar craft: Thoughtful use of oak and stainless steel yields complexity without heaviness.
- Critically and popularly acclaimed: Garnering high scores from critics and drinkers alike.
- Versatile companion: A great match for seafood, poultry, soft cheeses—or simply on its own.
Final Note
The 2023 “Les Parties” is a refined Burgundy bargain—elegant, mineral-driven, and layered with fruit and spice. It’s a wine that speaks clearly of Côte d'Or's character without demanding Côte d'Or prices. Whether you're a Burgundy aficionado seeking value or a curious taster exploring quality Chardonnay, this is a gem well worth uncorking.
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