Barton & Guestier Reserve Chardonnay 2024

Barton & Guestier Reserve Chardonnay is a polished, easy-drinking French Chardonnay with pear, quince and vanilla aromas, a fresh first impression and a rounded, supple palate. Made from 100% Chardonnay grown in the Pays d'Oc, it balances fruit and creaminess with a gentle savoury oak note through the finish. Fruit from cooler sites near Limoux brings freshness, while warmer Gard vineyards add generosity and texture. It is a handy bottle for roast chicken, creamy pasta or a relaxed glass before dinner, especially for anyone who enjoys Chardonnay with softness but not too much weight.

What the winery says:

The 2024 is sourced from Languedoc-Roussillon vineyards near Limoux and in the Gard, across sand, clay, chalk, schist, gravel and pebble soils. Grapes were picked at night and early morning, gently crushed, given 6 to 12 hours of skin contact, lightly pressed and fermented in stainless steel at 18 to 20°C. Lees stirring during maturation builds texture while retaining freshness. The wine is certified High Environmental Value and is best served at 10 to 12°C.

What the experts say:

Cameron Douglas MS, camdouglasms.com, 90 Points (2024)
“A light-creamy mouthfeel frames flavours of peach and lemon, vanilla and apple, grapefruit and buttered croissant. A dry wine with medium+ weight and satin-cream touches. Light oak seams with a vanilla quality and flavours that deliver a persistent and fresh and lively quality. Best drinking from day of purchase through 2028+. With or without food.”

Sam Kim, Wine Orbit, 4 Stars (2024)
“Pristine and elegantly fragrant with aromas of apricot, rockmelon, and citrus peel, it's juicy and beautifully rounded in the mouth, delivering bright fruit flavours with smooth texture and crisp acidity, finishing refreshing and friendly. At its best: now to 2027.”