Domaine Frantz Chagnoleau - Les Montchanins 2024
In the heart of the Mâconnais region, Domaine Frantz Chagnoleau has established itself in just a few years as one of the most sought-after producers in southern Burgundy. Based in Pierreclos, the winemaking couple meticulously works with Chardonnay, employing organic viticulture, deliberately limiting yields, and a very gentle approach in the cellar. Their objective is clear: to produce Burgundy wines of great purity, with a distinct expression of terroir, where freshness, balance, and drinkability take precedence over power.
Les Montchanins 2024 is an emblematic cuvée of the estate, made from Chardonnay grapes grown on the clay-limestone soils typical of the Mâconnais region. The 2024 vintage, marked by abundant sunshine and moderately cool nights, allowed the grapes to reach perfect aromatic ripeness while maintaining precise acidity. The harvest is entirely manual, with meticulous sorting in the vineyard. The grapes are gently pressed, and the juices ferment using only indigenous yeasts, in tanks and barrels that have previously held several wines. Aging on fine lees, without excessive oak or heavy intervention, aims to preserve the wine's natural tension while adding volume and complexity.
On tasting, the nose of Les Montchanins 2024 is immediately captivating. It opens with notes of white flowers, linden blossom, and hawthorn, followed by precise fruit aromas of fresh pear, green apple, and white peach. Touches of delicate citrus, lemon and grapefruit, mingle with a subtle chalky sensation, foreshadowing the minerality on the palate. With aeration, light, buttery, and nutty nuances emerge, perfectly integrated, adding another dimension without weighing down the bouquet.
On the palate, the attack is direct and bright. The texture quickly reveals itself to be ample but never heavy, with a juicy substance supported by a fine acidity that elegantly lengthens the wine. Aromas of white fruit, citrus pulp, and lemon zest linger on a clean mineral framework, reminiscent of wet stone and chalk. The finish is long, mouthwatering, and very easy to drink, marked by noble citrus peel bitterness and a slightly saline sensation that spontaneously invites another sip.
At the table, Domaine Frantz Chagnoleau Les Montchanins 2024 pairs perfectly with precise and delicate cuisine. It complements grilled or baked white fish, roasted cod, sea bream fillet, shellfish and crustaceans, or citrus ceviche beautifully. Its controlled freshness and chalky profile also make it an excellent choice for creamed free-range poultry, asparagus or mushroom risotto, as well as refined vegetable dishes featuring spring vegetables. Finally, it pairs very well with lightly aged pressed cheeses, such as a young Comté or an alpine Beaufort.
Grape variety: 100% Chardonnay
