# Maison Rijckaert Viré Clessé L'Épinet (2022)

- **Producer:** Maison Rijckaert
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Chardonnay
- **Region:** Burgundy, France
- **Style:** Natural
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 11–13 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** pear, grapefruit, lemon, peach, apple, cloves, biscuit, vanilla, honey, almond

## About this wine

Maison Rijckaert Viré-Clessé L'Épinet 2022 is a white wine from the Viré-Clessé appellation in Burgundy, France, made exclusively from Chardonnay. The estate was founded in 1998 by Jean Rijckaert, and is now managed by Florent Rouve, who upholds a philosophy of low yields and hand-harvesting. The Viré-Clessé appellation is situated on east-facing hillsides, benefiting from the morning sun, which contributes to the wine's character. Maison Rijckaert emphasizes biodiversity and natural winemaking practices, including the use of natural yeasts and aging in old oak barrels, to express the unique terroir of the region.

## Interesting facts

- Viré-Clessé is one of Burgundy's youngest appellations, established in 1999.
- The appellation exclusively produces white wines from Chardonnay.
- Maison Rijckaert champions biodiversity in its vineyards.
- Wines are aged in old oak barrels to preserve fruit purity.

## Food pairing

The wine's balanced acidity and medium+ body complement richer dishes by cutting through fat and cleansing the palate. Its subtle minerality and potential floral notes can echo or contrast with ingredients like herbs, citrus, and creamy sauces, creating harmonious pairings.

## Wine making process

Maison Rijckaert Viré-Clessé L'Épinet is produced using traditional winemaking techniques with a focus on natural processes. Grapes are hand-harvested to ensure quality. Fermentation is initiated by natural yeasts, contributing to the wine's character. Following fermentation, the wine undergoes aging in old oak barrels, a practice chosen to maintain the purity of the Chardonnay and the expression of the Viré-Clessé terroir. The estate also prioritizes sustainable viticulture, including promoting biodiversity and using minimal treatments in the vineyards.