The 2023 Louis Billard Saint-Aubin Premier Cru Les Castets is a beautifully refined Chardonnay from one of the Côte de Beaune’s most exciting white wine appellations. Sourced from the Premier Cru vineyard Les Castets, this wine showcases the growing reputation of Saint-Aubin for producing Chardonnays that combine the minerality and precision of neighbouring Puligny-Montrachet with outstanding value. The excellent 2023 vintage has delivered exceptional purity, freshness and balance.
The nose reveals white peach, lemon zest and pear alongside notes of citrus blossom, crushed stone and subtle toasted hazelnut. The palate is vibrant and finely textured, with layers of stone fruit and citrus supported by bright acidity and a pronounced mineral backbone. Hints of grapefruit, almond and flinty complexity add depth, while the finish is long, focused and beautifully elegant. The Premier Cru vineyard contributes additional concentration and structure while preserving the wine’s hallmark freshness and finesse.
Ben’s Recommendation:
A superb white Burgundy that offers precision, complexity and excellent ageing potential. Fresh, mineral and highly food-friendly, it pairs beautifully with oysters, scallops, lobster, roast chicken and creamy seafood dishes. Enjoy now with a brief decant, or cellar through 2035–2042 as it develops greater texture, nuttiness and Burgundian complexity.