# Bouchard Aîné & Fils Chardonnay (2023)

- **Producer:** Bouchard Aîné et Fils
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Chardonnay
- **Region:** Burgundy, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.0%
- **Average price:** €12
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 11–13 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** green apple, lemon, peach, nectarine, toasted bread, butter, vanilla

## About this wine

Bouchard Aîné & Fils Chardonnay is a white wine from a producer with a long history, established in 1750 in Beaune, Burgundy. The winery is dedicated to expressing the richness of French terroirs. This particular Chardonnay offers a balance of traditional Burgundy character and, in some instances, the flexibility of broader French appellations like Vin de France or IGP Pays d'Oc. The 'Reserve du Conseiller' designation indicates a specific selection process for these bottlings.

## Interesting facts

- Established in 1750, Bouchard Aîné & Fils is one of Burgundy's historic wine houses.
- Some bottlings are classified as Vin de France, allowing winemakers more creative freedom.
- The 'Reserve du Conseiller' designation suggests a higher level of selection.

## Food pairing

The wine's balanced acidity and creamy texture make it versatile. Its fruit and subtle oak notes complement lighter proteins and creamy sauces, while its freshness cuts through richer dishes. The acidity also helps to cleanse the palate after fatty foods.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for Bouchard Aîné & Fils Chardonnay involves careful grape selection. Fermentation may take place in stainless steel tanks or barriques, with some wines undergoing aging on lees for added complexity. Specific bottlings, such as the 'Reserve du Conseiller,' may involve extended aging periods in French oak barrels, with a proportion of new and used wood, for up to 18 months. Other bottlings might see a shorter period in oak followed by stainless steel aging on lees.