Joseph Drouhin Saint-Véran 2020, Burgundy, France

The lovely village of Saint-Vérand (note the different spelling), wedged between these two areas, is half hidden among the hills. Established by decree on January 6,1971, it is the latest appellation in the Mâconnais region. Its Jurassic chalky soil, a continuation of the limestone strata found in the Côte d’Or, is ideal for growing Chardonnay grapes. Picked by hand, the 100 percent Chardonnay grapes are gently pressed. The wine is fermented in stainless steel and is bottled before summer to capture the freshness and fruitiness of the wine. Bottling is usually done in the spring following harvest. Saint-Véran is very close stylistically to Pouilly-Fuissé, with its golden-green hue, its intense fruity, flowery nose and its refreshing flavors. It can be enjoyed very young, two-to-three months after bottling. Yet, give it one or two more years to fully appreciate its complexity.