J Moreau & Fils Pouilly-Fuissé Chardonnay 2015 Mâconnais, Burgundy, France 75cl

J Moreau & Fils is a long-established Burgundy house with roots going back to the early nineteenth century, best known for its work across the region’s white wines. Pouilly-Fuisse comes from the Maconnais in the south of Burgundy, a district that has become one of the most sought-after sources of white Burgundy in recent years.

This is pure Chardonnay, the grape behind all the great whites of the Cote de Beaune and the Maconnais. The Pouilly-Fuisse appellation sits below the dramatic limestone rocks of Solutre and Vergisson, and its clay-limestone soils give Chardonnay both richness and a firm mineral spine. Careful use of oak rounds the wine without masking the fruit.

The 2015 vintage in Burgundy was warm and sunny, producing ripe, generous whites with real depth of flavour. That ripeness gives this wine its rounded, open character, balanced by the freshness that the Maconnais tends to keep even in warmer years, so the wine avoids feeling heavy.

Expect aromas of white peach, ripe apple and a hint of hazelnut and vanilla from the oak. The palate is creamy and full, with ripe stone-fruit flavours and a gentle, nutty finish that lingers. Serve chilled but not ice-cold, in a large white wine glass.

Pouilly-Fuisse is a reliable step up from everyday Macon and an approachable introduction to fine white Burgundy. Rich enough for roast chicken, salmon or creamy pasta, it is equally at home with soft cheeses or simply a glass on its own. If you enjoy the Chardonnays of the Cote de Beaune, the Maconnais offers a similar style with a little more sunshine in the glass.