Beaujolais Blanc, Les Vignes de la Roche 2023, Château de Lavernette

Refreshing discovery from the South: Beaujolais Blanc 'Les Vignes de la Roche' 2023 – Château de Lavernette

Are you looking for a white wine bursting with energy, originality, and pure joy of life? While most people instantly think of red when hearing Beaujolais, this rare Beaujolais Blanc 'Les Vignes de la Roche' is an absolute showstopper. Xavier and Kerrie de Boissieu prove with this biodynamic gem that Chardonnay grown on the border of the Mâconnais and Beaujolais develops a unique, exhilarating character. A wine that truly dances in the glass: feather-light, energetic, and liquid sunshine tailored for the ultimate spring and summer feeling!

A floral dancer with a mineral spark

In the glass, the wine displays a bright, shimmering straw-yellow color. The nose is truly unique and seductive: intensely floral—almost with the aromatic opulence of a refined Viognier—filled with notes of linden blossom, fresh citrus zest, and juicy white peach and nectarine.

On the palate, this wine is a true sensation. It is a lively, feather-light, and pin-sharp Chardonnay bursting with life. The entry is delightfully playful and pure, featuring a subtle, energetic tingle on the tongue that recalls the freshness of a Vinho Verde, while simultaneously maintaining that unmistakable, silky Burgundian DNA. The flavor beautifully balances notes of soft butter with vibrant citrus acidity, without the acids ever becoming too sharp. The finish is elegant, pristine, and surprises with a brilliant, mineral spark. This is not a heavy, overly serious cellar wine, but a wine with a crystal-clear purpose: to purely enjoy the good life!

Terroir and Vinification

• Origin: 'Les Vignes de la Roche', a beautiful 2.08-hectare plot with a warm south to south-eastern exposure. The soil here consists of a unique mix of clay, sand, and granite.
• Grape Variety: 100% Chardonnay, sourced from old vines (averaging 60 years old!) that are deeply rooted, lending the wine its remarkable mineral character.
• Ageing: A patient maturation of no less than 20 months in concrete vats on the fine lees (sur lies fines) ensures a perfect texture and harmony, while preserving the fruity and mineral expression.
• Method: Fully organic and biodynamic (Demeter certified). Hand-harvested with strict selection on the sorting table. Direct pressing of whole clusters and fermentation with indigenous yeasts.

Wine and Food: The ultimate lunch and terrace wine

This Beaujolais Blanc is the perfect companion for sunny days and light, fresh dishes:

• The ultimate, festive aperitif to celebrate summer.
• Fresh summer salads, such as a salad with crispy prawns or crayfish.
• Fresh fish from the grill, like a pan-seared tuna steak à la plancha.
• Eastern and North African dishes, such as a fragrant chicken or duck tajine with preserved lemon.
• Excellent alongside light lunch dishes by the pool.

Why this wine is a smart choice

The 'Beaujolais Blanc hype' is in full swing, and after the first sip, you will immediately understand why. Château de Lavernette has delivered a highly original, pure, and natural wine that stands confidently on its own. It offers the perfect balance between mineral freshness and a soft, Burgundian roundness. The ultimate wine for lovers of purity, biodynamics, and casual luxury.

About Château de Lavernette

Situated at the exact crossroads of the Mâconnais and the Beaujolais, Château de Lavernette boasts a rich history dating back to the 16th-century monks of the Abbey of Tournus. Today, Xavier and Kerrie de Boissieu join forces on this historic family estate. Since 2007, they have worked entirely biodynamically. Their deep respect for nature results in pristine, vibrant terroir wines of unparalleled precision.

In Summary:

• Style: Energetic, light, and highly floral Chardonnay with an exciting minerality.
• Taste: Juicy stone fruit, refreshing citrus, subtle buttery notes, and a playful, lively structure.
• Origin: Old vines (60 years) on a sandy-granite soil in the Beaujolais AOC.
• Ageing: 20 months on the fine lees in concrete vats for maximum fruit expression.
• Potential: At its absolute fruity peak right now; a delightful drinker for the next 4 to 8 years.