Description

From a family domaine with roots stretching back to 1922, Les Sardines is hand-harvested Chardonnay drawn from clay-limestone and silt parcels across the Mâconnais, fermented with indigenous yeasts and aged for up to 24 months on fine lees in a mix of used oak and neutral vessels. The nose is quietly compelling: white peach, candied citrus and fresh almond carry a thread of iodine-tinged salinity that sets it apart from more fruit-forward Mâcon. The palate is where it really comes into its own, with a velvety, lees-driven texture underpinned by vivid acidity and a persistent mineral spine. For a wine at this appellation level, the length and structural integrity are genuinely impressive. Serve cool with roasted shellfish, a whole grilled fish, or a plate of oysters; equally good as a serious aperitif for those who find most Mâcon-Villages too simple.