The village of Marsannay in the Côte de Nuits is traditionally known for its excellent rosé wines, but in recent years local producers have earned a reputation for their fantastic value reds and whites. The Audoin family have been making wine here for five generations, although they only began bottling and selling their own wines in the 1970s thanks to Charles Audoin. Charles grew the property from 2.5 hectares of vines to 14 hectares before handing over the winemaking to his son, Cyril.
This elegant single vineyard white offers exceptional value for money with the Champ Salomon cru expected to achieve Premier Cru status in the coming years. The plot owned by the Audoin family was planted by Cyril’s grandfather in 1945 and typically produces rich but balanced Chardonnay that responds very well to oak.
Striking notes of zingy citrus, pastries, and ripe stone fruit immediately jump out of the glass followed by undertones of spice, vanilla and tropical fruit. On the palate there’s a generous medium body, well-rounded texture and muscular fruit flavours along with a bright streak of acidity and subtle minerality on the finish. Keep in the cellar for a few more years or serve now alongside roast chicken, grilled salmon steaks, or hearty dishes like aubergine parmigiana or moussaka.