CLASSICO features wines from storied regions, grapes and growers. Whether textbook renditions from lauded vignerons, an expression that shines a different light, or simply the best example of a genre we’ve found, these are wines that are sure to impress.
DOMAINE DE CHASSORNEY
Saint-Romain Combe Bazin 2021
Burgundy, France
From a single vineyard of Chardonnay planted high on the steep slopes of Saint-Romain, where you find a high percentage of limestone. This is the domaine’s most iconic wine and it is easy to see why. From a cooler vintage, this is Chardonnay of real tension and verve, full of citrus and chalky minerals.
Chardonnay
CLAIRE AND FLORENT BEJON
Les Bournais 2021
Loire, France
From a remote, one hectare parcel of Cabernet Franc planted over heavy clay and limestone in Ligré, where the vines are fifty years old. This spent six months infusing as whole bunches before being pressed to old barrels and amphorae for a year of élevage. Light, bright and lifted, this possesses the kind of texture and perfume that reminds us all of some of our favourite Beaujolais, though its red berries, earth and woodsy notes could only be from this part of the world. As always with wines from this parcel, there is a fullness and sweetness to the tannins that is incredibly appealing.
Cabernet Franc
OLEK BONDONIO
Langhe Nebbiolo 2021
Piedmont, Italy
This Nebbiolo comes from a beautiful young vineyard completely surrounded by forest and planted over steep slopes some five hundred metres above sea level. It spent a month on skins, before being transferred to botti grandi for élevage. A textbook example of the genre, here neat tannins frame delicate flavours of earth and rose, making for a wine that over delivers in every way.
Nebbiolo