White Burgundy is synonymous with Chardonnay. But in fact one of every ten white vines is Aligoté. This less prestigious varietal generally produces simple, refreshing wines meant for enjoyment rather than contemplation or cellaring. However, with demand for white Burgundy increasing, and warm summers producing riper grapes, growers have been turning out really impressive cuvées from this humble grape.
Today we’re excited to suggest the 2023 Aligoté from Domaine Ravaut. Is it the most profound white Burgundy in our cellar? No. Does it live up to its $25 pricetag? Completely – and more. The Ravaut’s Aligoté is from a particularly well placed plot, just north of the famous Hill of Corton. Winemaker Vincent Ravaut uses malolactic fermentation and a year of aging on lees to add complexity and depth
The 2023 in particular is just lovely. The scorching hot vintage has added a bit of flesh to the refreshing aligoté energy, and the resulting wine is unusually good. Look for soft fruit and a white flower nose, with brisk freshness and notes of lemon pulp and straw in the mouth. It’s a lovely everyday white Burgundy at a very attractive price.
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Ravaut Aligoté 2023
bottle price: $25
