Domaine J.F. Protheau La Côte de Beaune Santenay 2022

Santenay sits at the southern end of the Côte de Beaune, where the limestone soils and slightly warmer climate produce Chardonnays with more body and richness than their northern neighbours. This full-bodied expression showcases the appellation's ability to create powerful yet elegant wines with distinctive mineral backbone. The 2022 vintage benefits from excellent growing conditions that enhanced the natural concentration of flavours.

Serve this wine at 10-12°C to best appreciate its rich, creamy texture and complex flavour profile. The full body and brioche notes make it perfect for pairing with roasted chicken, lobster thermidor, or creamy mushroom risotto. Allow it to breathe for 15-20 minutes after opening to fully develop its mineral complexity and creamy mouthfeel.

The brioche and creamy characteristics suggest this Chardonnay has undergone malolactic fermentation and likely some oak ageing, possibly with lees stirring (bâtonnage). These techniques are hallmarks of traditional Burgundian winemaking, converting sharp malic acid to softer lactic acid while adding texture and complexity. The mineral notes indicate the wine still expresses its terroir despite these enriching processes.

The 2022 vintage in Burgundy was marked by early budbreak, a hot summer with some drought stress, and a relatively early harvest that produced concentrated, ripe fruit. These conditions favour full-bodied styles like this Santenay, where the natural richness is enhanced by the vintage characteristics. The wines show excellent balance between power and freshness, making them approachable young while having good ageing potential.

This full-bodied Santenay Chardonnay from a quality producer like Domaine J.F. Protheau should develop beautifully over 5-8 years from vintage. The mineral backbone and rich structure provide the foundation for graceful ageing, during which the brioche notes will integrate further and honeyed complexity will emerge. While delicious now, peak drinking will likely be between 2025-2030.