Château de Maligny Chablis 2009

"Old vine" Chardonnay from a great producer and a profound vintage. Razor-sharp and lean, displaying classic mineral, quartz and vibrant acidity interwoven among green apples and pear.

Wines made from older vines ("vieilles vignes" in French) benefit from longer roots that draw up more nutrients and flavor. Look for classic Chablis minerality in the core, surrounded by notes of fresh pineapple, Asian pear, and delicate floral aromas.

Fresh and grassy with lemon zest and an intense, almost sizzling minerality. Underlying these more vibrant notes runs a warm and persistent vein of pear, honey and nutmeg. Dynamic, intense, and satisfying.

This old-vine gem may be one of the best values in Chablis, with ripe fruit, offering melon, green apple and pear flavors, and crisp acidity.

Though the Petit Chablis is often overshadowed by its big brother AOC, Chablis, it would be a mistake to pass up the Maligny. The Chardonnay grapes used to make this well-balanced and racy white Burgundy are sourced from vineyards contiguous to some of the best vines in Chablis. Fresh and ripe, with effusive melon, pear and tart green apple flavors, this would be a winner with scallops, lobster or sushi.

Another killer Chardonnay from our favorite Chablis producer! Riper and more rounded than the AOC Chablis but with a terrific balance of acidity and mineral. Banana and melon dominate on the palate with a twinge of almond and slate. Try this with sushi for sure.

I've loved the wines from Chateau Maligny for years, and the 2009 vintage promises to be one of their greatest yet! Even at the basic AOC level, this Chateau is famous for releasing spectacular whites, with well-balanced fruit, subtle minerality, and racy acidity. I'm a huge fan of drinking this slightly chilled (remember, the colder it is, the less you will taste) on its own, but for pairing I'd definitely recommend any type of fresh seafood, grilled chicken dishes, or green salads with vinaigrette dressing.