The 2022 Cornu Hautes-Côtes de Beaune Blanc is a beautifully fresh and elegantly structured white Burgundy that captures the purity and rising quality of the Hautes-Côtes de Beaune appellation. Produced by Domaine Cornu from hillside vineyards planted on limestone-rich soils above the Côte de Beaune, the wine is crafted entirely from Chardonnay and benefits from the cooler elevations that preserve freshness, aromatic lift and mineral precision. In recent years, the Hautes-Côtes has become increasingly sought after for producing exceptional-value Burgundy with genuine regional character, particularly as warming vintages bring greater ripeness and depth to these historically cooler vineyard sites. The balanced 2022 vintage delivered excellent fruit concentration while retaining the vibrant acidity and tension that define fine white Burgundy. Domaine Cornu’s careful, low-intervention approach allows the terroir and vintage to shine through with clarity and finesse.
The nose reveals lemon curd, white peach and ripe pear layered alongside white flowers, toasted hazelnut and delicate flinty minerality, giving the wine impressive aromatic complexity and Burgundian charm. On the palate, it is medium-bodied and beautifully textured with lively acidity, subtle creaminess and a refined mineral backbone that keeps the wine fresh and focused throughout. Layers of citrus, orchard fruits, brioche and wet stone unfold with excellent balance and precision, finishing long, clean and gently saline with impressive elegance for the appellation. The 2022 vintage shows a lovely combination of generosity and tension, offering immediate approachability while retaining enough structure and freshness to develop gracefully over the coming years. The wine reflects the modern style of Hautes-Côtes Chardonnay — vibrant, polished and quietly sophisticated.
Ben’s Recommendation:
The 2022 Cornu Hautes-Côtes de Beaune Blanc is a superb value white Burgundy — fresh, mineral and beautifully balanced with classic Chardonnay elegance and finesse. Perfect for lovers of refined French whites with texture, freshness and understated complexity. Ideal with roast chicken, creamy seafood dishes, grilled fish, lobster, mushroom risotto or soft cheeses. Enjoy now for its youthful vibrancy or cellar comfortably through 2029+.
