Bourgogne, home to some of the world’s most revered red wines, offers a range of whites that embody the elegance, terroir, and complexity of the region – albeit, often, without the cosmic price tags of their red alternatives.
Where Are Bourgogne Wines From?
Bourgogne (Burgundy) is one of the most renowned wine regions in France, producing some of the finest wines in the world. Stretching from Chablis in the north to Mâcon in the south, its diverse climates and soils give rise to a wide range of wine styles, with Chardonnay as the dominant white variety.
What Are The Characteristics Of A White Bourgogne Wine?
As mentioned, white Bourgogne wines are primarily made from Chardonnay, known for their versatility and expression of terroir, but a handful of other grapes are experimented with, too. Depending on the region, these wines can range from lean and minerally to rich and buttery. They typically showcase aromas of citrus, white flowers, and stone fruits, with a refreshing acidity and – at times – a hint of oak. For those who appreciate elegant wines with subtle complexity, white Bourgogne offers plenty to discover.
Who Will Enjoy White Bourgogne Wines?
If you enjoy well-balanced wines – particularly those with refined minerality (hello, friend!) and delicate fruits – white Bourgogne is perfect for you. Complex but much lighter than whites from warmer climes, they can easily be paired with food or enjoyed on their own, making them a great dinner party pick, too.
White Bourgogne Wines
Perfect for both casual sippers and serious connoisseurs, here are seven exceptional white Bourgogne bottles to explore now.
1. Benjamin Laroche Chablis 1er Cru Montmains 2020
Benjamin Laroche Chablis 1er Cru Montmains 2020
From one of Chablis’ premier producers, Benjamin Laroche delivers a wine that captures the essence of the region’s limestone-rich soils. The Chablis 1er Cru Montmains 2020 is a testament to the Laroche family’s generations of winemaking expertise. A bouquet of white flowers, pear, and subtle toastiness creates an inviting nose, while the palate offers a balance of white fruit and rich minerality. The slight oak influence adds depth without overshadowing the wine’s inherent freshness and precision, making it a quintessential choice for seafood pairings, too. A true reflection of the Premier Cru label.
2. Francois Martenot Brut Cremant de Bourgogne 2018
Francois Martenot Cremant de Bourgogne
I am an absolute sucker for a Crémant, and this particular bottle, from Francois Martenot, stands out as a sparkling alternative to Champagne, offering the same level of finesse at a fraction of the price. Hailing from vineyards near Beaune, the heart of Bourgogne, this wine is pale yellow with bright reflections, offering a nose filled with delicate fruit and blossom aromas. On the palate, it bursts with fresh, lively flavors and a full-bodied texture that lingers without feeling overly intense. It’s the perfect aperitif (but I won’t tell anyone we drank two bottles with dinner if you don’t)..
3. Louis Latour Bourgogne Chardonnay 2019
Louis Latour Bourgogne Chardonnay
Louis Latour, a name synonymous with Burgundy’s wine-making traditions, makes beautifully expressive Chardonnays, and the 2019 is no exception. Floral notes are accompanied by green apple, white peach, and a touch of almond, with a beautifully structured body, to boot. The Latour family’s centuries of expertise shine through in this wine, making it an ideal introduction to the region’s premium whites, whether enjoyed with seafood, salads, or dishes laden with cream (you know, the way all good French dishes should be).
4. Moillard-Thomas Bourgogne Aligoté 2022
Moillard-Thomas Bourgogne Aligote
Often overshadowed by its Chardonnay counterparts, Aligoté is a hidden gem in Bourgogne, and Moillard-Thomas is one of the best producers to showcase its potential. The 2022 Aligoté, for example, presents vibrant – dare I say wild – citrus throughout, with a palate that’s aperitif-crisp. It’s characterful, with lots of bright acidity, yet delightfully balanced. Bonus points for its gifting potential, too; who doesn’t like to receive a bottle of something that introducing them to a grape they’re yet to fall in love with?
5. Dominic Hentall Bourgogne Saint Veran 2021
Dominic Hentall Bourgogne Saint Veran 2021
Dominic Hentall’s Bourgogne Saint Veran 2021 is a prime example of high-quality Burgundy that doesn’t require a high price tag. This gold medal-winning Chardonnay offers a layered, rich tasting experience, with ripe apricots leading the way. The wine’s long, smooth finish is complemented by subtle oak notes (very demure, very mindful), benefiting from an optimal terroir (near Pouilly-Fuissé) that produces wines with remarkable depth and complexity. Whether enjoyed with risotto or a flavorful dish that might veer into red wine pairing territory, this Saint Veran is a true pleasure to drink.
6. Louis Jadot Chablis Cellier du Valvan 2022
Louis Jadot Chablis Cellier du Valvan 2022
Chablis that encapsulates the region’s signature elegance and precision, Louis Jadot’s 2022 Cellier du Valvan reveals aromas of musk, white flowers, and melon, while the palate is marked by a supple texture, bright acidity, and subtle hints of citrus. This wine’s stony minerality and long finish (with hints of my personal Chablis obsession, grapefruit) make it a real standout.
7. Adnams White Burgundy 2022
Adnams White Burgundy 2022
Adnams White Burgundy is a delightful introduction to unoaked Chardonnay (read: the antithesis of those clag-heavy 90s Chards) from the Mâcon region. Fermented in stainless steel, this wine evolves throughout the year, starting off as fresh and zesty, with notes of white peaches and lemon, before developing into a richer, more tropical profile by winter. Basically, it’s a best-seller for good reason; an approachable yet complex wine for all occasions.