Hautes Côtes de Nuits Blanc 2023 Domaine Bertagna

The Hautes Côtes de Nuits Blanc 2023 from Domaine Bertagna is the most approachable and immediately seductive white cuvée from the domaine, and a precious oddity in an appellation where one doesn't always expect a Chardonnay of such complexity and aromatic depth. A Chardonnay that above all shows a particularly complex aromatics for its appellation level: citrus, honeysuckle, spring honey, finely roasted hazelnut. The palate is well-extended, evoking a certain minerality that runs through a round and sapid body.

Terroir and vineyard

This Hautes Côtes de Nuits Blanc comes from a 1.13 hectare parcel of 100% Chardonnay planted on the commune of Nuits-Saint-Georges, at a higher altitude than the Côte vineyards, in the valleys and hills that overlook the most prestigious appellations of the Côte de Nuits. The soil is particularly characteristic: laves de Bourgogne, these basaltic and limestone stones from ancient geological collapses, which give the Chardonnay a minerality and natural tension of remarkable precision for a back-slope appellation. The altitude and natural freshness of the terroir preserve the acidity and delicacy of the variety, producing a white of a lightness and vivacity that contrasts with the more opulent Chardonnays of the Côte de Beaune. Viticulture is integrated and reasoned, with biological soil work, green harvesting and hand-sorted manual harvest. Vinification is precise: pressing of berries without destemming, followed by 48 hours of cold maceration, alcoholic fermentation in barrels and stainless steel tanks. Ageing lasts 10 to 12 months, of which 60% in oak barrels of 228 and 456 litres and 40% in stainless steel tank, to preserve the freshness and aromatic brilliance of the variety while bringing it natural complexity and roundness.

Tasting profile

The colour is pale gold with green hints, clear and bright. The nose is of immediate freshness and generosity: supple and fruity, on aromas of fresh fruit, evolving towards spices and dried fruits. Notes of citrus, honeysuckle and spring honey unfold naturally, accompanied by a touch of finely roasted hazelnut from the partial barrel ageing. The stony minerality of the laves de Bourgogne brings depth and precision to a floral and fruity bouquet of remarkable delicacy for this appellation level. On the palate, the wine is supple, fruity and naturally drinkable: the texture is round and sapid, with well-integrated fresh acidity that brings tension and length to a light and elegant body. The finish is clean, mineral and fruity, with a pleasant persistence that confirms the quality of this Nuits-Saint-Georges terroir in its back-slope white expression.

The domaine

Domaine Bertagna is located in Vougeot, in the heart of the Côte de Nuits, whose buildings open onto the famous Clos de Vougeot. Founded by Claude Bertagna, acquired in 1982 by the German family Reh, it is today run by Eva Reh-Siddle and Denis Rozat leading production, over 17 hectares covering 18 appellations, including 5 remarkable Grand Crus.

Food pairings

Pâtés, terrines, shellfish, fish in sauce, vol-au-vents, small snails in Burgundy style are classic pairings perfectly suited. This Hautes Côtes de Nuits Blanc will also pair well with white asparagus with mousseline sauce, wild mushroom and parmesan risotto, trout with almonds or fresh goat cheese with herbs. Served between 11 and 12°C, it will reveal all the floral freshness, stony minerality and natural appeal of a back-slope Chardonnay signed with care and conviction.