Tissot Arbois Patchwork Chardonnay 2024

Domaine André et Mireille Tissot is one of the emblematic estates of Arbois, run by Stéphane and Bénédicte Tissot across 35 hectares certified organic and biodynamic. Patchwork is their entry Chardonnay, its name a nod to the many small plots of differing Jura soils that go into the blend. This is the topped-up, or ouillé, style rather than the oxidative tradition of the region, so the barrels are kept full and the wine is protected from air to preserve fresh fruit and mineral drive. It is aged for twelve months in large foudres, old oak casks whose size means very little oak flavour is imparted; instead they allow gentle texturing and lees contact while the wine keeps its brightness. Made naturally, with native yeasts and minimal intervention, it shows the clarity the estate is known for. The colour is bright straw. The nose leads with green apple, white peach and pear over a light almond and bready note. The palate is medium bodied and mineral, the fruit fresh and the texture rounded rather than rich, closing on a citrus-peel lift and a saline edge. Serve at 10 to 12 degrees.