Domaine de la Denante Saint-Veran Les Maillettes Maconnais 2021

Domaine de la Denante is one of the producers forging the way ahead for the Mâconnais – stepping into the limelight as one of Burgundy’s top regions for quality and value. This is a tremendous wine – especially for the price – that competes directly with some of the big names and big regions, for far, far less!

With its dramatic limestone escarpments, the Mâconnais is certainly one of the prettiest regions in Burgundy. Nestled just outside the village of Davayé, one of seven villages that make up the appellation of Saint-Véran in the heart of the region, you’ll find Domaine de la Denante. Taking its name from the nearby stream, La Denante, the Martin family has called this home since 1982. Begun by Robert Martin, when his family’s holdings and their long-held Domaine de la Croix Senaillet passed to his brothers, Denante has become a small, yet revered producer of some of the best whites in the entire Mâconnais. Robert’s son, Damien, joined the project in 2010 – implementing organic and biodynamic farming practices that have taken the wines to the next level both in terms of quality and authentic expression of the region’s terroirs.

This single parcel comes from the family’s holdings in Saint-Véran, the lieu-dit known as Les Maillettes which borders Pouilly Fuissé. Originally, Robert had always blended this parcel with the other holdings across Saint-Véran, but with Damien at the helm, what was once one larger bottling has now become three unique and terroir-driven lots, with Les Maillettes standing alone.

“It’s completely different from the straight Saint-Véran. In character, it’s more like a wine from further up north in Burgundy. It’s richer and fatter.” -Damien Martin

The wine is certainly rich and dense, one where ripe orchard and citrus fruits combine with cooling sparks of minerality and a deft touch of toasty and creamy oomph. Again, at this price point, for White Burgundy, it is stunningly complex and harmoniously balanced…just a winner through and through. Lemon meringue, baked apples, tart dough, hazelnuts, ginger, lemongrass, and a smoky spice complement – it carries the hallmarks of fine Saint Aubin, with a softness and brightness that make this the perfect chardonnay for drinking early and often over the next few years. We intend to drink this quite a bit over the coming months, and you’d be wise to do the same!

PAIRING IDEAS: Ever had gnudi? It’s like gnocchi – but lighter, fluffier, and better for summer. Try this version – with chanterelles and herbs from Nancy Silverton’s "Mozza"