2023 Domaine Simon Bize Bourgogne Blanc "Les Champlains", Burgundy, France

ABOUT THE WINE

Les Champlains is sourced from a single vineyard located on the lower slopes beneath Savigny-lès-Beaune, where limestone-rich clay soils provide ideal conditions for producing Chardonnay with freshness, purity, and mineral definition. Although classified as Bourgogne Blanc, this site consistently delivers a level of complexity and precision that exceeds its regional designation.

Produced from 100% Chardonnay, the 2023 vintage reflects the domaine's restrained, terroir-driven philosophy. The grapes are hand-harvested and gently pressed before fermentation with indigenous yeasts. The wine is aged in French oak barrels, with only a modest proportion of new oak, allowing the vineyard's character to remain at the forefront. Lees aging adds subtle texture and depth without sacrificing vibrancy.

The resulting wine is elegant and energetic, offering aromas of lemon zest, orchard fruit, white flowers, hazelnut, and chalk. The palate balances ripe fruit with lively acidity and a saline mineral backbone, creating a wine that is both immediately appealing and capable of developing additional complexity over 5–8 years.

Les Champlains is exceptionally versatile at the table, pairing beautifully with oysters, grilled fish, roasted chicken, creamy pasta, fresh goat cheese, shellfish, or classic Burgundy dishes such as gougères and escargots.

ABOUT THE PRODUCER

Founded in 1880, Domaine Simon Bize has earned a reputation as one of the Côte de Beaune's most respected family estates, renowned for producing wines of authenticity, elegance, and remarkable transparency of terroir. Today, the domaine is led by Chisa Bize, who continues the legacy established by Patrick Bize with meticulous vineyard work and a steadfast commitment to traditional Burgundian winemaking.

The estate farms its vineyards using sustainable methods rooted in organic and biodynamic principles, encouraging healthy soils and balanced vines through careful manual cultivation. Winemaking is intentionally minimalist, relying on native yeast fermentations, thoughtful use of whole clusters where appropriate, restrained oak influence, and patient élevage to preserve the identity of each vineyard. Whether crafting regional wines or Premier and Grand Crus, Domaine Simon Bize consistently produces wines distinguished by purity, finesse, balance, and exceptional age-worthiness.