Introduction:
The 2023 Domaine Françoise & Denis Clair Saint-Aubin 1er Cru Les Frionnes Blanc from Burgundy, France is a precise, terroir-expressive Chardonnay from one of the village’s top Premier Cru sites. Showcasing the depth and elegance of Saint-Aubin’s upper slopes, this wine is defined by mineral clarity, balanced oak integration, and refined fruit character.

Terrior:
Les Frionnes is a south- to southeast-facing Premier Cru vineyard in Saint-Aubin, situated on clay-limestone marl soils at approximately 300–400 meters elevation. The cool continental climate, combined with these mineral-rich soils, contributes to the wine’s bright acidity and linear structure.

Appearance:
Pale gold with green reflections — youthful, luminous, and suggestive of high-altitude freshness and restraint.

Nose:
Aromas of white flowers, lemon zest, white peach, and Anjou pear emerge first, followed by stony mineral notes and subtle toasted almond from restrained oak aging. The bouquet is detailed and lifted, emphasizing purity over opulence.

Palate:
Tightly woven with a vibrant acid core, the palate delivers flavors of pear, peach, and lemon curd layered over a chalky, saline backbone. Light creaminess from lees aging complements the precise fruit and minerality, adding depth without weight. Oak influence is finely judged, offering structure and complexity without overshadowing freshness.

Finish:
The finish is long, clean, and driven by limestone-derived minerality. Notes of citrus zest, flint, and toasted hazelnut linger with elegant tension and vibrancy.

Overall Impression:
The 2023 Saint-Aubin 1er Cru Les Frionnes Blanc from Domaine Françoise & Denis Clair is a masterfully balanced white Burgundy, showcasing the finesse of Premier Cru terroir. Focused citrus and orchard fruit, vibrant acidity, restrained oak, and a persistent mineral finish make this a compelling choice for Burgundy enthusiasts. With aging potential but accessible now, it’s a wine that speaks clearly of its place.

Recommended Food Pairing:

• Meat / Fish: Sole meunière, roast chicken with tarragon, veal in lemon-butter sauce, grilled trout

• Vegetarian / Vegetable: Grilled asparagus with hollandaise, lemon herb risotto, sautéed zucchini, vegetable terrine

• Cheese / Charcuterie: Goat cheese, Brie, young Comté, prosciutto, jambon de Paris

Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): ~13%
Farming Practices: Sustainable / low-intervention; soils plowed, minimal chemical use
Producer Name: Domaine Françoise & Denis Clair
Old World / New World: Old World
Country of Origin: France
Region: Burgundy – Côte de Beaune, Saint-Aubin 1er Cru "Les Frionnes"
Grape Varietals: Chardonnay
Vintage: 2023
Wine Style: White Burgundy, Premier Cru Chardonnay — mineral-driven, balanced, medium-bodied
Winemaking Techniques: Barrel fermentation (partial new oak), lees aging for texture, minimal bâtonnage
Pack Size: 750 mL
Container Style: Bottle
Closure Style: Cork