Garagiste Le Stagiaire Chardonnay 2024

Of the Stagiaire Chardonnay, Campbell Mattinson has written, "Every year it's one of the best quality/value propositions on the market". It's worth pointing out that, as for the Pinot Noir, Barney Flanders doesn't make this Chardonnay specifically for the Stagiaire label. All his ferments start as potential single-vineyard wines. Those that end up as single-site wines are barrel selections, and the remaining wines are bottled as Le Stagiaire. This gives us some idea of how this label is able over-deliver year-in, year-out.

"Complex and quite umami in character. Grapefruit, apple, saline, nutty, Japanese ginger, and a little struck match. It has bright acidity, a certain juiciness in with all that nutty almost sake-like character, creamy almond, lime rind, fine chalky texture, and a finish of excellent length. Really good Chardonnay, and all things considered, jolly good value. Charismatic, is my last word on this wine. Say no more."  Rated : 94 Points.  Gary Walsh.  The Wine Front