Domaine Valette Mâcon-Chaintré Vieilles Vignes 2023
Domaine Valette
Domaine Valette's old-vine Mâcon consistently performs above its appellation — a consequence of extremely low yields, extended lees aging, and the family's insistence on biodynamic farming. The 2023 vintage has energy and precision, delivering a Chardonnay that competes with wines twice its price.
Nose
Ripe Golden Delicious apple and white peach dominate, layered with acacia honey and a chalky mineral thread. A subtle almond note and fresh-cut grass add complexity without heaviness.
Palate
Textured and concentrated for Mâcon, with a creamy mid-palate of orchard fruit and lemon curd balanced by bracing acidity. The old vines contribute a density that lingers beyond what you'd expect at this appellation level. A whisper of toasted hazelnut appears on the back end.
Finish
Persistent and clean, with citrus pith, crushed stone, and a trailing note of green apple.
- Varietal
- Chardonnay
- Blend
- 100% Chardonnay
- Vineyards
- Old vines (50+ years) in Chaintré on clay-limestone soils
- Alcohol
- 12.5%
- Organic / Biodynamic
- No
- Skin Contact
- No
Food Pairing
The warm, nutty pastry and melted Comté echo the wine's toasted almond and creamy texture, while the gougère's light, airy structure matches the wine's crisp acidity.
Gérard and Philippe Valette farm their old Chardonnay vines in Chaintré biodynamically and age their wines on lees far longer than the region's norm, producing Mâcon wines of unusual concentration and longevity.
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