A distinctive and beautifully expressive 100% Aligoté from Bouzeron, Burgundy's only village appellation dedicated to this historic grape variety.
Produced from mature vines planted on the white-marl slopes of Bouzeron, Cuvée Axelle 2023 combines the natural freshness of Aligoté with considerably more depth and texture than one might expect from the variety.
Fresh citrus, white peach and pear are joined by delicate white flowers, subtle hazelnut and a precise mineral character. The palate is lively yet rounded, finishing fresh, clean and gently saline.
Region: Burgundy, France
Subregion: Côte Chalonnaise
Appellation: Bouzeron AOC
Vintage: 2023
Producer: Domaine Michel Briday
Cuvée: Axelle
Grape: 100% Aligoté
Alcohol: 12.5% ABV
Style: Dry White Burgundy
Bouzeron occupies a special place in Burgundy as the region's only village-level appellation dedicated to Aligoté.
Domaine Michel Briday farms approximately 1.5 hectares here, with vines averaging around 50 years of age. The vineyards are situated high on the slope, where compact white-marl soils are particularly well suited to Aligoté.
The combination of mature vines, controlled yields and fully ripened fruit gives Cuvée Axelle greater concentration and texture while retaining the freshness that defines the variety.
The grapes are hand-harvested and gently pressed.
Fermentation begins naturally with indigenous yeasts, and the domaine favors a restrained approach in the cellar to preserve the freshness and character of the Aligoté.
The result is a wine focused on purity, freshness and the distinctive mineral expression of Bouzeron.
Nose:
White flowers and cherry blossom with lemon, citrus peel, white peach and pear, developing subtle notes of hazelnut with air.
Palate:
Fresh and energetic, with citrus and orchard fruit supported by vibrant acidity. There is more texture and roundness than typically associated with Aligoté, balanced by a distinctive mineral freshness.
Structure:
Medium-bodied, precise and beautifully balanced, combining lively acidity with an attractive creamy texture.
Finish:
Fresh and persistent, with citrus, white flowers, and a clean mineral-saline character.
Domaine Michel Briday Bouzeron Cuvée Axelle 2023 demonstrates just how serious Aligoté can become when grown in the right terroir.
The old vines and white-marl soils of Bouzeron give the wine greater concentration and complexity while retaining the grape's naturally refreshing personality.
Citrus · White Peach · Pear · White Flowers · Hazelnut · Mineral · Saline Freshness
Drink: Now–2030
Preferred Window: Now–2028
The 2023 is drinking beautifully now, with its freshness and primary fruit still very much at the forefront.
Over the next few years, expect the citrus and floral character to soften slightly, with more almond, hazelnut, and mineral complexity emerging.
Serving Temperature: 10–12°C
There is no need to decant. Allowing the wine 10–15 minutes in the glass should be sufficient.
Recommended Pairings:
Oysters · Crab · Prawns · Scallops · Grilled Fish · Sea Bass · Mahi Mahi · Escargots · Gougères · Roast Chicken · Goat Cheese · Comté · Fresh Salads
An excellent wine for customers who enjoy Chablis, Muscadet, or mineral-driven Chardonnay but want to discover something different from Burgundy.
Serve with oysters, grilled local fish or seared scallops. Its citrus, acidity, and mineral freshness also make it particularly good with gougères or escargots.
Serve at approximately 11°C in a white wine glass.
