Bertrand Bachelet Maranges La Fussiere 1er Cru Blanc 2020 1.5L

Winery Background and History: Domaine Bertrand Bachelet is a fourth‑generation estate in Maranges, located just south of Santenay in Burgundy’s Côte de Beaune. Founded and fully inherited by Bertrand Bachelet in 2011, the domaine occupies limestone slopes of Dezize‑lès‑Maranges. The estate blends tradition with modern precision; though production remains small, its reputation has grown through consistent attention to terroir, deliberate cane pruning and emphasis on quality over quantity.

Producer and Wine Maker: Bertrand Bachelet personally oversees all winemaking decisions, supported by a lean team. His viticultural roots date back decades and he studied in Beaune before refining his craft through apprenticeships in Rhône and Rully. His philosophy favors hands‑on biodynamic practices, minimal sulphur, ambient yeast fermentation and barrel aging to deliver wines that reflect their plot’s character rather than oak influence.

Vineyards and Micro Climate: The La Fussière 1er Cru lies within a small site spanning Dezize‑lès‑Maranges and Cheilly under full south‑southeast exposure. Soils are brown marl over limestone, ensuring good drainage and mineral complexity. Vines grow at around 200‑300 m altitude and benefit from warm days and cool nights typical of the Maranges microclimate, giving ripe fruit yet maintaining vibrant acidity. 

Vinification & Aging Methods: Harvest is by hand with gentle whole‑cluster pressing. Fermentation is spontaneous with natural yeasts and roughly 20% new oak aging for about 12 months. After barrel aging, the wine spends several months in tank to clarify naturally before bottling. Malolactic fermentation completes in barrel, and sulfur additions are minimal. 

Tasting Notes: The wine pours a pale gold with subtle sparkle. On the nose it offers acacia and white floral notes followed by flinty, slightly buttery nuances. The palate is elegant and restrained, with white peaches, green pear, saline minerality and a hint of creaminess. The finish is clean and persistent with texture and precision. 

Food & Wine Pairing: Excellent with shellfish, grilled or poached fish such as cod or turbot, creamy vegetable dishes, soft cheeses like Cantal or Gouda, and cold antipasti. The wine’s saline acidity makes it a superb match for seafood or creamy sauces. 

Service Methods and Temperatures: Serve slightly chilled at 11–13 °C in a tulip or classic white Burgundy glass. Pour slowly to allow the wine to open up. No need to decant. Enjoy within a few hours of opening to preserve aromatics. 

Storage and Aging Potential: This wine benefits from medium-term cellaring condition (12–14 °C, ~70% humidity). Drinking window spans from 2023 through 2030, with potential to evolve minor tertiary complexity through 2035. 

Grape Varietals & percentage used: Chardonnay 100% 

ABV (Alcohol by Volume): Approximately 13%