Maillet Macon Verzé 2023

One of our original sources here is Nicolas Maillet, an energetic, friendly winemaker bursting with enthusiasm for his craft. Jasper Morris MW calls Maillet “an excellent winemaker;” William Kelley calls his wines “elegantly textural and enveloping…pure and precise” with “immediate charm.” Maillet relies on indigenous yeasts for spontaneous fermentation, and never rushes the process, allowing it to proceed for months if the slow fermentation in his cool cuverie so requires.

Maillet’s 2023 Macon-Verzé is magnificent. It’s lush and plump from the hot growing season, but shot through with energy and tension. Neal Martin of Vinous calls it “a worthy follow-up to the delicious ’22,” and we agree. The nose shows an exquisite array of beeswax, pineapple, and lemon verbena; the mouth is vibrant and mouthfilling, with notes of apricot, tangerine, green tea, and a brisk freshness. Serve on its own as a delicious and dynamic aperitif.