Jean Foillard Beaujolais Blanc 2023

A rare white from one of Beaujolais’ most celebrated producers, and a rather different side of Jean Foillard. Made from Chardonnay grown on a small 1.4-hectare parcel at Pizay, this inaugural release brings the same thoughtful, hands-off approach that has long defined the domaine’s Gamay wines. Whole bunches are given a short cold maceration before pressing, with the wine then split between concrete, seasoned barrels and sandstone jars for fermentation and maturation. The result is generous but nicely composed, with ripe pear, white peach and green apple alongside citrus, white flowers and a subtle stony edge. There’s a rounded, gently leesy texture through the palate, balanced by fresh acidity and a fine mineral thread that keeps everything lively. Produced in very small quantities, it’s a fascinating and rather lovely glimpse of Foillard’s take on Chardonnay.