Uchizy is a small town in the Mâcon area of Burgundy. Minerality and aromatics are broadly applied characteristics of the chardonnay produced in this region, and the Meurgey-Croses Macon-Uchizy ($32) is a prime example. Pierre Meurgey makes this wine, both fermenting and aging, in stainless steel tanks. He says it emphasizes the natural freshness of the wine, and the appeal of its fruit, mostly pineapple and pear with a hint of lime, really bursts from the glass. Exceptional.
Having said that, the wine is generous, well-structured, almost personifying balance with its fruit and acidity. It is not a shy wine, with a certain viscosity that belies it being chardonnay. Meurgey himself comes from a line of Burgundian estate managers, oenologists, and winemakers, and he has added his mother’s family name, Croses, to his relatively new winemaking venture. At this price, you get real Burgundy character without taking out a loan. You might even want to try a similarly priced chardonnay or two from the Okanagan and Australia, just to see how things can be so different between regions. It’s a great way to learn which way your own palate is leaning, as well.
Meurgey-Croses is available at BCLDB listings.
