Saint-Véran Climat „La Bonnode“ Zen AOC 2022

Wine Description for Saint-Véran Climat „La Bonnode“ Zen AOC 2022 by La Soufrandière

Colour & Appearance

Pale golden yellow in the glass, clear and luminous – a Chardonnay that reveals its Burgundian origins at first glance.

Nose

Fascinatingly multi-layered and unconventional: The Cuvée Zen displays a subtle oxidative note reminiscent of walnut and sherry, without feeling heavy. Beneath this, abundant green and yellow lemon, both juice and zest, accompanied by smoke and stone. This aromatic profile intrigues and promises complexity.

Palate

Here the wine reveals its true character: silky and sensual, with a creamy texture that distinguishes it from its sibling wine La Bonnode. The acidity is perfectly integrated, yet firm and forceful. The wine remains remarkably clear and juicy, with intense citrus notes, a hint of toffee, green pineapple and green pear. On the finish, mineral notes and salt dominate – a Burgundy with tension and drinkability.

Finish

Long, stony-saline and refreshing, with lingering citrus notes. The mineral precision persists to the very end.

Terroir & Origin

The two-hectare vineyard La Bonnode lies at the foot of Roche de Vergisson at 250 metres altitude, facing east. The 35-year-old vines are rooted in limestone marl and pale clay – ideal conditions for expressive Chardonnay with mineral character.

Grape Variety & Vinification

100% Chardonnay, whole-bunch pressed and spontaneously fermented. The 17-month ageing in large wooden vats and 228-litre barrels imparts the wine’s creamy texture. With biological malolactic fermentation, a pH of 3.36 and only 37 mg/l total sulphur, this represents minimal intervention and natural winemaking. Harvest from 29 August to 3 September 2022.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Perfect with razor clams with sherry and saffron mayonnaise, chicken souvlaki with rice or lemongrass tofu with wild broccoli. The creaminess and minerality harmonise beautifully with seafood and Asian-inspired dishes.

Special Features

The Cuvée Zen is one of four differently aged versions of La Bonnode – an intriguing insight into La Soufrandière’s philosophy, demonstrating how ageing can modulate the personality of a terroir.