Producer: Pascal Bonhomme
Region:Burgundy,France
Varietal:Chardonnay
Year: 2023

John Gilman,93 Points

“The Vieilles Vignes bottling of Vir-Cless from Pascal Bonhomme is crafted from vines that range from sixty to seventy years of age, and these old vines have absolutely hit the ball out of the park in 2020! The gorgeous bouquet wafts from the glass in a complex blend of pear, delicious apple, fresh almond, a beautiful base of chalky soil tones, acacia blossoms, white lilies and just a touch of vanillin oak. On the palate the wine is svelte, pure and full, with a superb core of fruit, great soil signature, bright, zesty acids and impeccable balance on the long, vibrant and complex finish. This is a beautiful wine, which is just a touch more reserved out of the blocks than the regular bottling of Vir-Cless, but with a bit more depth at the core from the preponderance of old vines in the cuve. I would try to give it a couple of years in the cellar, but it is awfully tasty already!”

Winemaker Notes:

“This is an absolutely stellar wine from an area in burgundy that many people overlook. Very clean and pure on the nose with aromas of lemon, pear, quince, and a hint of wildflower honey. There is a saline edge to the nose as well. On the palate the bright acidity balanced by a hint of wood on the back palate. The wine is super mineral and racy with flavors of quince, pear, citrus on the mid and back palate. Layered under all of that is a touch of pineapple and honey. This finish is long and dry.”

Alcohol: 13%

*Price and availability in store may vary. Vintage date may differ from pictured.