Maison Wessman - Bugalys 2023

Bugalys Chardonnay 2023

A beautifully poised Chardonnay from Maison Wessman’s Bugalys vineyard in the cool Upper Limoux Valley. Grown on clay-limestone soils at 300–400 metres above sea level, the 25–30-year-old vines benefit from the region’s cool climate, producing Chardonnay with both freshness and elegant concentration.

Hand-harvested and gently pressed, the wine is fermented and aged on its lees for nine months in a combination of French oak barrels and wooden truncated-cone vats. Straw-yellow in colour, it opens with an elegant, expressive nose of white flowers and ripe fruit. The palate is both bold and refreshing, combining delicate floral notes and fresh orchard fruit with a subtle hint of toasted hazelnut. Smooth and creamy on the finish, it strikes a lovely balance between richness, freshness and restrained oak.

Blended in collaboration with Andreas Larsson, Best Sommelier in the World ASI 2007 and ambassador for Bugalys, this is a polished, gastronomic Limoux Chardonnay with plenty of finesse.

Grape: 100% Chardonnay
Style: Elegant, textured and fresh dry white
Vintage: 2023
ABV: 13%
Appellation: AOP Limoux
Terroir: Clay-limestone soils at 300–400m altitude
Vine age: 25–30 years
Ageing: 9 months on lees in oak barrels and wooden vats
Serving: 11–13°C
Drink: Now–2027

Food pairing: Excellent with turbot, monkfish or sea bass in a delicate sauce, pan-seared scallops and other fine seafood. Particularly good with free-range chicken and morel mushrooms, and lovely with lightly aged Comté or Beaufort.