Ardèche Chardonnay, Louis Latour 2023

It's not Burgundy, but it's doing a very good impression. Louis Latour, one of the Burgundian heavyweights, crafts this in the same style, but coming from the Ardèche, down the Rhône Valley, it's a bit more pocket friendly. Unoaked, it's akin to a good Mâconnais white, with subtly honeyed aromas, lively acidity, and ripe pear and white peach flavours that shine through beautifully. Fresh, rounded, and elegantly balanced, it delivers everything you'd expect from a classic Burgundy — just from a little further south.

A fresh and appealing match for classics like poulet à l’estragon or a simple roast chicken with herbes de Provence, the bright fruit and acidity complement delicate flavours without overwhelming them.

One of the most recognisable names in Burgundy, Louis Latour has been family-owned since 1797 and built its reputation on Chardonnay. Few do it better, from top Grand Crus across the Côte-de-Beaune - their Corton-Charlemagne being a particular standout - to brilliant village wines. But their expertise doesn't stop at the Côte d’Or. In the Ardèche, they apply the same skill and precision, producing wines that are superb, good value, Burgundy look-alikes. When it comes to Burgundian Chardonnay, they're pretty much the benchmark.