Introduction
The 2022 Cave de Lugny Mâcon-Villages "La Côte Blanche" is a crisp and approachable Chardonnay from the Mâconnais region in Burgundy, France. Known for producing value-driven, high-quality wines, Cave de Lugny is a well-regarded cooperative that emphasizes the expression of terroir in their wines. This Mâcon-Villages Chardonnay reflects the fresh, fruit-driven style of the region, with a balance of ripe fruit, minerality, and bright acidity, making it a classic example of unoaked white Burgundy.
Terrior
The Mâconnais is located in the southern part of Burgundy, where warmer temperatures allow for a slightly riper style of Chardonnay compared to the cooler northern regions. The limestone-rich soils in the "La Côte Blanche" vineyard add minerality and structure, while the region’s rolling hills and well-drained soils provide excellent conditions for growing high-quality Chardonnay. The warmer climate of the Mâconnais brings out ripe, fruit-forward flavors, while the limestone influences the wine’s freshness and minerality.
Appearance
Pale gold with greenish hues, reflecting the wine’s youth and vibrancy. The wine is clear and bright, with medium viscosity, suggesting a fresh and balanced profile.
Nose
The nose is aromatic and inviting, with notes of green apple, pear, and lemon zest, complemented by subtle floral hints of acacia and white flowers. There is a touch of wet stone minerality that adds complexity, along with a delicate hint of honey and almond, characteristic of Chardonnay from the Mâconnais.
Palate
Light to medium-bodied with a fresh, lively acidity, the palate reveals flavors of ripe apple, citrus, and a hint of peach, balanced by a crisp mineral edge. The wine’s texture is smooth and clean, with no oak influence, allowing the pure fruit flavors and mineral character to shine. A subtle creaminess on the mid-palate adds roundness, giving the wine an elegant mouthfeel.
Finish
The finish is clean, refreshing, and medium in length, with lingering notes of citrus and a touch of minerality. The wine’s vibrant acidity leaves a crisp, mouthwatering impression, making it very food-friendly.
Overall Impression
The 2022 Cave de Lugny Mâcon-Villages "La Côte Blanche" is a classic, unoaked Chardonnay that showcases the fresh, mineral-driven style of the Mâconnais. With its fruit-forward profile, crisp acidity, and subtle complexity, it pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, including seafood, poultry, light pastas, and fresh salads. This wine is ideal for immediate enjoyment, capturing the freshness and purity of young Chardonnay from Burgundy.
Published Rankings
Wine Enthusiast Rating: 89
James Suckling Rating:
Robert Parker Rating:
Vinous Rating:
Jeb Dunnuck Rating:
Decanter Ranking: 88
Wine Spectator:
Wine Enthusiast: 89
Published Awards and Recognition
Awarded Bronze Medal at the 2023 Decanter World Wine Awards; recognized as a "Best Value White Burgundy" by Wine Enthusiast; featured in local French wine guides for quality and affordability.
Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): 13%
Farming Practices: Sustainable
Producer Name: Cave de Lugny
Old World / New World: Old World
Country of Origin: France
Region: Mâcon-Villages, Mâconnais, Burgundy
Grape Varietals: 100% Chardonnay
Vintage: 2022
Wine Style: Dry White
Winemaking Techniques: Fermented in stainless steel tanks to preserve freshness and varietal purity; no oak aging, allowing the Chardonnay’s natural flavors to shine
Pack Size: 750 ml
Container Style: Bottle
Closure Style: Screwcap