Rijckaert Arbois Chardonnay 2022

Domaine Rijckaert is a family run estate founded in 1998 by Belgian winemaker Jean Rijckaert, combining holdings in Burgundy and the Jura with a hands on, terroir focussed approach. In the Jura, vineyards lie around Arbois and Villette on rolling hills of limestone and marl soils at about 200-400 metres, influenced by a semi continental climate that gives freshness and minerality. The estate is in conversion to organic farming with low intervention practices and vegan friendly winemaking, emphasising manual harvesting and spontaneous fermentations to let each site express its character. The long standing philosophy preserves biodiversity in the vineyards and respect for soil and plant life.

Arbois Chardonnay 2022 is made from 100% Chardonnay grapes sourced from selected parcels near Arbois and Villette. After hand harvesting, the grapes are gently pressed and each parcel is vinified separately. Fermentation takes place with indigenous yeasts in a combination of stainless steel and 500-litre French oak barrels, primarily, second and third-fill, which add subtle texture without imparting strong oak flavour. The wine is aged on fine lees for 14-20 months, allowing natural autolysis to build body and complexity. It shows aromas of white peach, orchard fruit, citrus blossom and hints of toasted almond, with bright acidity and mineral tension, pairing beautifully with seafood, grilled fish, creamy poultry dishes and mild, nutty cheeses.