2020 Michel Briday Bouzeron, Burgundy, France

ABOUT THE WINE

Sourced exclusively from old-vine Aligoté Doré, the more aromatic and expressive clone of the grape, this 2021 Bouzeron is a benchmark example of its appellation. The vineyards, located on marl-limestone slopes at moderate altitudes in the Côte Chalonnaise, are farmed sustainably with a focus on soil vitality and low yields. The grapes were hand-harvested and gently pressed, then fermented with native yeasts and aged in a mix of stainless steel and neutral oak barrels to preserve freshness while adding subtle depth. The cool 2021 vintage brought heightened aromatic nuance and zippy acidity — a perfect frame for Aligoté’s delicate character. Pair it with shellfish, goat cheese, or vegetable-driven dishes like asparagus or fennel gratin.

ABOUT THE PRODUCER

Domaine Michel Briday, founded in 1976 in Rully, is a family-run estate now helmed by Stéphane Briday and his wife Sandrine. Known for their precise, terroir-driven expressions of Côte Chalonnaise wines, the Bridays emphasize sustainable viticulture and minimal intervention in the cellar. With holdings in Rully, Bouzeron, and Mercurey, their commitment to underappreciated appellations like Bouzeron has helped raise the profile of Aligoté and demonstrate its capacity for serious, age-worthy wines. The domaine is guided by a philosophy of transparency — from vineyard to bottle — seeking to express the soul of each site with clarity and respect for nature