Famille Paquet Bourgogne Blanc 2023
(Burgundy, France)

Famille Paquet is an estate located in the commune of Davayé in the Mâconnais. Nestled at the feet of two limestone escarpments (the Roche de Solutré and the Roche de Vergisson), the 30-hectare property (with 8 hectares in the some of the best terroirs of the Saint-Véran appellation) was established by Jocelyne and Michel Paquet in 1980 under the name Domaine des Valanges. Today under its current name, the domaine is run by Jocelyne and Michel's three sons: Jean-Baptiste, Mathieu and Camille. The Paquet brothers take great care of their vineyards, farming each of their fifty parcels individually using organic and biodynamic practices, finally becoming fully certified in 2021. Famille Paquet strives to make expressive Chardonnay that is fruit-driven with floral and mineral notes.

Famille Pacquet has bottlings of Chardonnay from all parts of the Macon.  From Pouilly Fuisse at the higher end of their production, to a Macon Village at the other end of the spectrum, they cover it all. This Bourgogne Chardonnay (As it is labeled) is an assemblage of "leftover" wine from the numerous vineyard sites where they source fruit.  The wine has a pretty pale gold hue with a delicate nose of acacia honey, marzipan, and spring flowers.  While the winemaker's notes say "rich and round on the palate", I would describe the wine as being on the lighter side, with the tell-tale soft edges from barrel refinement.  There is the slightest hint of hazelnut and just a whisper of vanilla on the finish.  

Famille Paquet's Bourgogne Blanc pours a brilliant pale gold in the glass with translucent green reflections. The nose displays a mix of white orchard and citrus fruits mixed with notes of white flowers. On the palate, flavors of green apple and lime zest are wonderfully balanced by vivacious acidity and a subtle mineral undertone. The finish is crisp and refreshing. Enjoy with fish and chips or lemon-herbed, roasted chicken.

The Paquet family are highly regarded winemakers in Burgundy, crafting precise Chardonnay with minimal intervention. Medium bodied with lively acidity, pronounced minerality, and subtle use of neutral oak.