Les Chênes is a lieu-dit located in the heart of the Verzé Valley, and Domaine Leflaive's 2022 Mâcon-Verzé Les Chênes is a white Chardonnay wine produced in the Mâcon-Verzé appellation within the Mâconnais region. The two plots, facing west to southwest, are situated on slopes ranging from gentle to steep. Some of the vines date back to the 1930s, which is reflected in the wine's concentrated flavors rather than its body.
The 2022 growing season across the Burgundy region was sunny and warm, and the Mâconnais area was drier than other regions, with the exception of June. Due to this drought, the yield from the grapes here was lower than in northern regions, resulting in a wine with concentrated flavors that go beyond simply ripe notes. The alcohol content is 12.5%, which is low enough to allow the fruit aromas to shine vibrantly.
Fermentation takes place in a variety of containers, including stainless steel, foudres (large oak barrels), concrete tanks, and 600-liter oak barrels, with the combination varying from year to year. It is then aged on its lees for 10 months, followed by an additional 6 months of aging on fine lees in stainless steel tanks before bottling. It is best enjoyed through 2032.
Winespectator (91)
Nicely framed with toasty oak and pastry accents, this rich white exhibits peach, apple tart and grapefruit flavors. An underlying mineral element emerges as this plays out on the finish.
