Burgundy is a long and complex strip of regions, sub-regions, villages and vineyards stretching from Dijon in the north to Macon in the south. It producers, along with perhaps one or two other regions, the most sought after wines in the word sometimes selling for tens of thousands of pounds. But for a few exceptions the reds are Pinot Noir and the whites are Chardonnay, but it is the micro-climate, soils and winemaking that makes the wine so interesting, unique and varied in style and quality. It is the most terroir driven region of France and with its continental climate that varies much from year to year, vintage variation in the wines is everything. While 2018 marked Aline Beauné’s first solo vintage, she is no stranger to winemaking in the Côte Chalonnaise. For 15 years, she led winemaking at Château de la Crée in Santenay before deciding to branch out on her own. When the Buxy co-operative’s lease on 5 hectares of her family’s 12-hectare Montagny vineyard ended, she seized the opportunity. Her vines, located in Saint-Vallerin, are split between Aligoté, Bourgogne Blanc, Montagny Villages, Montagny 1er Cru Chazelle and she also has one or two Santenays. Committed to organic conversion, she has eliminated herbicides and chemical rot treatments, instead focusing on preventative care and meticulous vineyard management. She also incorporates select biodynamic preparations to energize the soil. In the cellar, oak is used with restraint—never exceeding 10% new wood in the 1er Cru—allowing the terroir to shine through. The vineyards’ large pebbles retain heat, enhancing bright tropical fruit flavours, while the porous chalk soils contribute to a concentrated yet beautifully integrated acidity. These wines are electric and vibrant in their youth, with exceptional ageing potential. || Tasting note: Very subtle nose with hints of citrus and mineral notes. A very delicate use of Alsatian oak provides a soft, creamy mouthfeel. Very long finish on the palate with lots of energy, helped by the 35 year old vines. Very stony. || Winemaking Detail: pneumatic press, settling during 24-48 hours with cold temperatures. Then alcoholic fermentation in Alsatian foudre only (no new oak), with natural yeasts. 12 months of ageing, then after the racking 3 more months in tank to clarify and prepare for the bottling. Aline: "This cuvée was born from the 2022 harvest; it comes from a plot in the heart of the village, next to my grandmother's house, where it all began. This cuvée is a tribute to the work of the past and the efforts made, which allow me to be here today. It is now my turn to take care of this heritage!" || Features Lemon Lime Lemon thyme Stony Acidity
