Sylvain Pataille Marsannay Blanc 2020

100% Chardonnay. This Marsannay village wine comes from five parcels, including Les Larreys, Clos du Roy and En Blungey, as well as fruit from newly planted vines in Couchée. The oldest vines in the cuvée date from 1949. It ferments and ages for 18 months in 600-litre barrels, and Pataille uses a touch of new oak. It opens compact and smoky before unfurling in fleshy layers of nectarine and creamy citrus, while the palate offers a terrific balance of freshness and flesh. It’s a complex and expressive wine with a lovely, detailed finish.