And the winner is...
2010 Mâcon Villages (Cave de Lugny)
The co-operative La Cave de Lugny, just north of Mâcon, is Burgundy’s largest. One of the earliest in the region, it was founded in 1927 and now produces over 6 million bottles of wine annually, from some 1450 hectares of vines in the Mâconnais. It is best known for its beautifully vinified, and satisfyingly consistent, oak free whites. At the top of the range is the widely available Mâcon-Lugny Les Charmes, a 105 hectare monopoly which, year in year out, provides a most reliable bottle of pure, elegantly fruity Chardonnay.
Just as tempting is their ‘entry’ level Mâcon-Villages, the Trophy Chardonnay in question. This is a first rate example of the type, a dry, juicy white burgundy, long, fresh and succulent, still with a touch of youthful spritz (in May). Everything one could ask for from a Village Mâcon, absolutely delicious and remarkable value. It is also an exciting early indication of what we can expect from 2010, this very fine white Burgundy vintage, the fourth in what looks like being a great quartet.
From a Burgundy consumer’s point of view, it is hugely satisfying to have a brand name like the Cave de Lugny which produces both quality and quantity. Drink this young, within a couple of years of the vintage. It is wonderfully flexible, easy drinking, with lighter firm cheeses, most fish, paler meats, and just as a delightful aperitif. And if you want to see a model co-operative, this is within easy reach of the A6 motorway and has a range of excellent visits.
Written by Michael Schuster
