The 2024 Bernardins BDV of Domaine des Bernardins Muscat de Beaumes-de-Venise, one of the benchmark sweet wines of the Southern Rhône. Produced from Muscat à Petits Grains grown on the sun-drenched slopes beneath the Dentelles de Montmirail, the estate has been family-owned for generations and is widely regarded as one of the leading names in the appellation. Despite its richness, the wine is renowned for balancing sweetness with remarkable freshness and purity.
The nose is intensely aromatic, showing apricot, white peach, orange blossom and honey, alongside notes of candied citrus, quince and jasmine. The palate is luscious yet vibrant, with ripe stone fruit, marmalade and floral characters lifted by refreshing acidity and a long, clean finish. Decanter has awarded recent vintages 93 points, praising the wine’s balance, freshness and purity.
Ben’s Recommendation:
One of France’s great-value sweet wines and a perfect half-bottle for sharing. Rich, fragrant and beautifully balanced, it pairs superbly with blue cheese, fruit tarts, poached pears, apricot desserts and foie gras. Equally enjoyable as an aperitif, it drinks beautifully now and will continue to develop for 10–15 years.
