Bouchard Père & Fils : Beaune 1er cru "du Château" Domaine 2019

The 2019 Beaune 1er Cru du Château Blanc offers up aromas of pear, white flowers and peaches, framed by a deft touch of oak. Medium to full-bodied, rich and enveloping, it's lively and textural, with good underlying acidity. This is a charming, expressive introduction to the vintage, appellation and maison.

A fresh, clean white, offering apple, lemon and floral notes. Light-bodied and harmonious, ending with baking spice accents. Drink now through 2026. 1,000 cases imported.

Also exclusively produced at Bouchard since 1907, the white is a blend of four parcels, each vinified separately before blending. Just under 10ha, limestone, clay and marl soils, 9-10 months in wood (up to 15% new) with 3-4 months in stainless steel before bottling. Quite closed on the nose, hints of linden blossom. Citrus acidity and zest on the palate, a mineral note on the finish. Supple oak, ripe and concentrated. Relatively early-drinking.

The 2019 Beaune Blanc du Château 1er Cru offers candied orange peel, vanilla pod and light almond scents on the nose, a slight improvement compared to its showing from barrel. The palate is well balanced with fine acidity, a slightly waxy texture, bitter lemon, orange pith and peach skin, leading to a cohesive finish. After a stuttering start, this has found its groove. Tasted at the Bouchard Père tasting in London.