Maison Louis Latour, Ardeche IGP (France) Chardonnay “Grand Ardeche” 2023 ($17, Louis Latour USA)

Maison Louis Latour, a top-notch Beaune-based négociant who has always been known for their structured and precise white wines, expanded outside to Burgundy further south into the Ardeche to produce Chardonnay in the 1980s. The result has turned out to be very successful as a source for bargain-priced wine. The 2023, from a ripe and forward vintage, displays a subtle touch of tropical fruit buttressed by good acidity. Its ripeness is reminiscent of California Chardonnay while its balancing acidity and a hint of minerality speaks of Burgundy. The price makes it an easy buy.
90 Michael Apstein