Domaine Bartschi Les Clos Chardonnay 2023

Wine Type: White
Style: Mineral-driven Bugey Chardonnay; textured, elegant, citrus-driven, Burgundian-inspired, age-worthy
Vintage: 2023
Bottle Size: 750ml
Grape Variety: Chardonnay
Appellation: Bugey Manicle AOC
Country: France
Region: Manicle, Bugey, Savoie
Producer: Domaine Bärtschi
Winemaker: Clément Bärtschi
Vineyard: Le Clos, a walled vineyard of approximately 50–60-year-old Chardonnay vines at 400 meters elevation
Soil: Limestone-rich clay and marl
Farming: Organic farming practices; biodynamic-inspired vineyard management; hand-harvested
Alcohol: 13%
Fermentation: Indigenous-yeast fermentation in French oak barrels with gentle handling and minimal intervention
Aging: Aged in French oak barrels with restrained use of new oak to preserve freshness and mineral expression
Food Pairings: Seared scallops, roast chicken, grilled trout, lobster, mushroom risotto, Comté, creamy cheeses, herb-roasted vegetables

Tasting Note:
Domaine Bärtschi’s 2023 “Le Clos” is a beautifully precise Chardonnay that combines the elegance of white Burgundy with the distinctive mineral character of Bugey. Lemon zest, ripe pear, white peach, green apple, acacia, toasted hazelnut, and subtle baking spice lead into a textured, energetic palate. Bright acidity and a firm limestone backbone balance the wine’s gentle richness, while a long, saline finish adds depth and complexity. Refined and expressive, with the structure to develop beautifully over the coming years.

About the Producer:
Domaine Bärtschi is a small estate founded in 2019 by Clément Bärtschi in Manicle, a little-known appellation in France’s Bugey region at the southern edge of the Jura Mountains. After gaining experience at Domaine de la Romanée-Conti and M. Chapoutier, Clément returned to his family’s roots in Bugey, acquiring approximately 2.5 hectares of old vines planted on limestone-rich slopes. He farms organically, incorporates biodynamic practices, and works with indigenous yeasts, restrained oak, and minimal intervention in the cellar. His wines are precise, textured, and deeply mineral, bringing a distinctly Burgundian sensibility to one of France’s most overlooked wine regions. “Le Clos,” sourced from a walled vineyard of mature Chardonnay vines, is a compelling example of the domaine’s remarkable potential.