Cuvée Alfred 2023, Bourgogne blanc Bruno Lorenzon | Burgundy

Domaine Bruno Lorenzon 's Clos Alfred is a real gem. This white Burgundy comes from a singular 0.8-hectare parcel located at the bottom of a hillside in Mercurey, in the heart of the Côte Chalonnaise. Formerly classified as a first-class vineyard in the cartography of ampelographer A. Budker, this clos reveals the richness of deep, marly clay-limestone soils. This singular terroir, close to the Premier Crus, reveals all the richness and diversity of Chardonnay. The 35-year-old vines are organically grown, and have been chemical-free for almost as long. Their high planting density is a guarantee of concentration. True to its high standards, Domaine Lorenzon practices meticulous, low-intervention winemaking: hand harvesting, direct pressing and fermentation with indigenous yeasts only. The wine is aged for one year in one third large barrels, designed by Bruno Lorenzon himself, and two thirds in stainless steel tanks. After this initial phase, the wine is matured in vats for a further 2 months, giving it a perfect harmony of freshness and depth. The balance between purity of fruit and complexity of substance in this Chardonnay is the perfect embodiment of Bruno Lorenzon's signature style.

Philippe Mischler, sommelier at Mundovin : The Bourgogne Clos Alfred is a fascinating introduction to the world and style of Bruno Lorenzon, between tension and aromatic brilliance. This white Burgundy goes beyond its "simple" regional appellation of white Burgundy to rival the crus of Mercurey. Its precision and balance have nothing to envy of certain Côte Chalonnaise premier crus. Already very expressive in its youth, it can be laid down for several years to further refine its beautiful complexity. Bruno Lorenzon's modest terroir has been skilfully elevated to the rank of great emotions.

The Clos Alfred cuvée nose reveals summery notes of pear and white peach, enriched by floral touches of honeysuckle and acacia. Delicate brioche and even subtle vanilla aromas appear on the second nose, with empyreumatic nuances that enhance the purity of the fruit.

On the palate, the smooth, fruity attack is immediately seductive in its sweetness and intensity. Flavors of nectarine and orchard fruits intertwine with vivacity on a perfectly controlled acid framework, giving the whole a remarkable length and depth. The evolution on the finish is impressive, moving from an ample greediness to a chiseled, mineral profile.