Vintage 2009: Sun and heat were abundant in August 2009, allowing the the grapes to mature in ideal conditions. It was hot but not too hot. The beautiful weather continued through the early harvest, giving producers lots of time to pick the fruit without risk of inclement conditions or temperatures that were too hot. The Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Gamay (in Beaujolais) grapes were perfectly healthy, and in most cases, there was no need for sorting tables.

From long-established Burgundy négociant Joseph Drouhin comes this pretty Mâcon-Villages. The color of the wine is bright and shows fine clarity. The nose is floral and filled with ripe orchard fruit notes. It is very straightforward and direct on the palate—like biting into a nice ripe chardonnay grape and experiencing the ripe golden delicious apple and pear flavors. In the mouth it shows roundness and richness, with a very pleasant finish. Vinified without artificial yeasts or enzymes. Aged 6-8 months in stainless steel. Made from contracted purchased fruit grown on chalk and clay.

Great on a picnic, delicious with seafood and fowl.

$12.99 per bottle or $132.50/case ($11.04)