Region: Macon, Burgundy, France

Varietal: 100% Chardonnay

Producer: Clos de la Crochette is part of the ambitious project by Les Héritiers du Comte Lafon, founded in 1999 when Domaine des Comtes Lafon (Meursault) acquired parcels in the Mâconnais region. This move, led by Dominique Lafon and now guided by a new generation (Léa and Pierre Lafon), has elevated this often-overlooked area through certified organic and biodynamic farming, precise vineyard selection, and a philosophy that white wines from southern Burgundy can rival those of the more celebrated Côte d’Or. The “Clos de la Crochette” bottling exemplifies this mission—offering clarity, elegance, and a strong sense of place.

Vineyard & Winemaking: The 2023 Clos de la Crochette comes from vines planted in 1987 in the commune of Chardonnay, at about 200 m elevation, on clay-limestone soils over hard limestone subsoil, enriched with small white screes. Faces south and benefits from strong exposure and wind that promote thick skins and good phenolic development. The wine is vinified using native yeasts and aged partly in large wooden containers (foudres) and partly in demi-muids (500 L barrels), being kept on lees for 7-8 months before bottling in late summer to maintain freshness and complexity.

Tasting Notes: The 2023 Clos de la Crochette greets you with crisp aromas of green apple, quince, and lemon peel, framed by notes of crushed stone and sea cave. On the palate it’s medium-bodied with a poised entry—vibrant acidity and wet-stone minerality counterbalance orchard fruit and a subtle hint of smoke. The texture is refined yet alive, finishing with clarity and a purity that makes you want to return. Best enjoyed now through 2028, though its structure suggests it may hold with grace for longer.