The 2023 growing season in the Mâconnais was a tale of contrasts. A warm, dry winter gave way to a mild spring, encouraging early budbreak and uniform flowering. June brought erratic weather—violent storms and surges of heat—testing vineyard resilience and canopy management. Downy mildew loomed, but diligent viticulture preserved fruit integrity. July’s settled warmth and cool nights promoted steady ripening, while a late heatwave in early September accelerated harvest decisions. Picking began in the mornings to retain freshness, with yields generous enough to balance ripeness and acidity. The result: whites of vibrant tension, crystalline fruit, and terroir transparency, with the best sites showing remarkable finesse
Famille Paquet Pouilly-Fuissé 2023
£42.95 incl. VAT
12 in stock
Famille Paquet Pouilly-Fuissé 2023
From organically farmed vines planted in 1958 and 1980, this is a cool, focused expression of southern Burgundy Chardonnay, fermented and matured sur lie for 12 months in oak, followed by 8 months in stainless steel.
Nose: Wonderfully complex and enticing, with aromas of toasted hazelnuts, candied lemon, seashells, and a whisper of smoke. Palate: Medium-bodied yet mouth-filling, with chalky minerality and citrus zest driving the core. The texture is creamy but taut, with a breathtakingly long, smoky finish that’s polished and persistent. Style: White – Buttery and Complex Score: 93 points – James Suckling Drink Window: 2025–2030 Pairing: Ideal with shellfish, roast poultry, or creamy pasta.
Score: 93 points Reviewer: Stuart Pigott for JamesSuckling.com (June 2024)
“An instantly appealing Burgundian chardonnay that you don’t have to be an expert to enjoy. Effusive nose of quince with delicate notes of candied orange peel and butterscotch. Stacks of fruit in the middle of the medium-bodied palate, then a wonderfully bright, stony finish. The excellent balance suggests this will develop well for a few years. Drink or hold.”


