Domaine Bonnardot Clos Botaveau 2018

Domaine Bonnardot sits in the Côte d'Or in Burgundy, where the family traces its winegrowing back to 1470. Ludovic, Emilien and Antoine farm biodynamically and make natural wines, and this bottling is a skin-contact Chardonnay released under the Vin de France classification because of its unconventional method. The fruit is fermented on its skins and aged for a long twenty months split between clay amphorae and barrel. Burgundy's limestone-rich soils give Chardonnay its minerality and structure, and the extended élevage works on two fronts: the porous amphorae allow slow micro-oxygenation that builds savoury complexity, while the barrel adds a fine texture without dominating with oak. The long maceration draws tannin and colour from the skins, producing a wine with real grip for a white grape. Native yeasts and biodynamic farming keep it transparent to its origin. The wine shows a golden amber colour and a nose of white flowers, apricot and dried herbs over a waxy, honeyed base. The palate is lively, fresh and mineral, with stone fruit, a nutty edge and a firm, dry finish. Serve at around 13 to 14 degrees in a large glass. It suits roast chicken, mushroom dishes and nutty cheeses.