Yohan Lardy "Les Bruyeres" Beaujolais-Villages Blanc 2023

This gorgeous Beaujolais Blanc comes from Chardonnay vines planted in Fleurie, and it certainly gives any Bourgogne Blanc a run for its money. Cool, delicate and refreshing, with bright, citrusy acidity lifting notes of green apple and oyster shell minerality with garden-herb freshness and a silky, elegant finish. But also a nice creaminess and roundness on the middle of the medium-bodied palate.

The grapes come from eight-year-old Chardonnay vines planted at 150 meters elevation near Cru Fleurie. The plot has clay and silt soils and is situated at east to west exposure. Hand harvested and immediately pressed. Fermentation with native yeast at cool temperatures. Aged six months on fine lees in stainless steel.

Yohan Lardy is one of Beaujolais' most vibrant young winemakers. The fifth generation in his family to grow wine in the Beaujolais, he is working organically in his vineyards, plowing in between the rows and vines so herbicides aren’t needed. The balance of biodiversity that he maintains makes using insecticides unnecessary. All of this vineyard work, including harvest, is done manually. His wines are known for their concentration, vivacious nature and bright acidity.

Yohan Lardy’s youthful enthusiasm and charm are practically irresistible. If you subscribe to the notion that the wine matches the winemaker, Yohan’s energy and unguarded good-humor will come as no surprise once you’ve tasted his wines.