Marsannay Saint Urbain Blanc 2022 (Domaine Jean Fournier)

Enjoy it now, or cellar for up to 10 years. No need to decant before serving. Saint Urbain Blanc is a fascinating blend of grapes and Marsannay vineyards, loaded with aromas of citrus peel, acacia flowers, orchard fruits, and toasted hazelnuts. It is composed of 80% Chardonnay, 8% Pinot Blanc, and 4% Pinot Beurot, with the remainder being Chardonnay Rose, a rarely utilised clone that brings a sapid bitterness to the blend. Saint Urbain is a blend of three vineyards, Es Chezots, Champ Forey, and Plante-Pitois, making it a well-rounded expression of Marsannay. These vineyards fall under the domain of Laurent Fournier, the incumbent winemaker at the estate. Although the modern winery was founded in 1962, his family are one of the oldest winemaking families in the region, with a history dating back to the 17th century. This is a refined and complex white, exhibiting notes of ripe pear, honeysuckle, and lemon, coupled with pleasantly grippy tannins and a vibrant acidity. On the finish, mineral notes shine through, evoking gravel and sea salt. It was aged for a year in oak barrels, before 4 to 6 months of further ageing in stainless steel. Consider pairing this white wine with creamy chicken dishes, soft pungent cheeses, or grilled fish.