Marsannay blanc AOC 2023

Wine Description for Marsannay blanc AOC 2023 by Bruno Clair

Character

Marsannay – the northern gateway to the Côte de Nuits – is primarily known for its red wines and its celebrated rosé. Yet Bruno Clair’s Marsannay blanc reminds us that this appellation also holds a fascinating terroir for white Burgundy: clear, precise, with a mineral tension that reflects the heart of the Côte de Nuits. With 13.0% alcohol and dry vinification, this wine displays the typical austerity and elegance of a seriously crafted white Burgundy.

Terroir & Origin

Marsannay lies at the northern edge of the Côte de Nuits, where the soils consist of a characteristic blend of limestone and clay – a foundation that gives Chardonnay structure and a distinctive mineral depth. The vintage 2023 was characterised in Burgundy by warmth and an early harvest start, which produced ripe, expressive wines with good natural freshness – provided the winemaker worked with care in the vineyard.

Grape Variety & Vinification

Chardonnay is a rarity in Marsannay, and that is precisely what makes this wine special. Bruno Clair, one of the most renowned estates of the Côte de Nuits based in Marsannay itself, stands for a craftsman-like precise, terroir-focused approach. The vinification typically employs restrained use of oak, allowing the origin and natural texture of the fruit to take centre stage – a style that prioritises transparency and authenticity over opulence.

Food Pairing Suggestions

This white Burgundy character makes the wine ideally suited to the region’s classic cuisine: quenelles de brochet with Nantua sauce, poulet à la crème or a simple yet high-quality Comté plateau. Grilled fish with herb butter or scallops with light butter sauce also harmonise wonderfully with the minerality and cool elegance of this wine.