Domaine de la Verpaille Bourgogne Blanc is produced from the estates younger vines and is a refreshing introduction to southern Burgundian Chardonnay. It is fermented and matured in stainless steel tanks; no oak is used. Aromatic floral notes and perfectly balanced with citrus and apple fruit flavours along with little hints of spice. The finish is lovely and tangy and the saline, fresh notes come through.

Domaine de la Verpaille is owned and run by Baptiste & Estelle Philippe who are the 5th generation of their family to run this charming wee estate in the heart of Vire-Clesse. Production is focused on the Chardonnay grape and the vineyards were certified Organic in 2006. All their wines are lees aged for 12 months before release which gives a characteristic richness and depth of flavour which is simply wonderful. If ever there was a case to say that a Domaine’s wines reflected their maker, then this is it. Warm, humble, inviting, honest and amazingly good company.

The south of Burgundy still offers tremendous value compared to the fancier names in the north. It still feels like real Burgundy here with humble wine makers and a focus on terroir driven wines. These are wines that represent the area but are priced to be drunk rather than traded.