Benjamin Leroux Auxey-Duresses 2023

Description

Elegant, mineral and distinctly Burgundian in tone. The Benjamin Leroux Auxey-Duresses Blanc 2023 reveals the subtle power of this often-underrated Cote de Beaune village. Sourced from three key lieux-dits—Les Hautes, La Macabree and Les Boutonniers—the wine reflects a mosaic of terroirs. Les Hautes sits high on limestone-rich slopes, lending tension and lift; La Macabree and Les Boutonniers, closer to Meursault, add texture and gentle breadth from deeper clay-limestone soils. Many of these vines, now over 70 years old, provide low yields of concentrated fruit, giving the wine both precision and depth. Fermented naturally with indigenous yeasts and matured for more than a year in a combination of foudres, demi-muids and traditional pieces, the 2023 vintage shows Leroux’s deft touch with oak and his commitment to purity. The result is a Chardonnay that marries ripe orchard fruit, white flowers and citrus zest with a finely etched mineral core. The gentle use of lees and extended maturation time contribute subtle creaminess, integrating texture without diminishing freshness. Benjamin Leroux has built his reputation as one of Burgundy’s most thoughtful vignerons, combining technical rigour with respect for place. His Auxey-Duresses Blanc 2023 demonstrates that ethos perfectly: restrained yet expressive, structured yet graceful. It captures the village’s character—a balance of Meursault-like generosity and Puligny’s linear precision—within a frame of quiet composure. Approachable on release, it will continue to develop complexity and savoury nuance with several years in bottle, confirming Leroux’s standing as a producer of rare consistency and vision. Tasting NotesNOSE– Fresh and restrainedAromas of Granny Smith apple, citrus peel and mineral lift, with oak sitting quietly in the background. PALATE– Bright and balancedCrisp apple, pear and lemon with a rounded mid-palate from barrel ageing, carried by fine acidity and mineral drive. FINISH– Long and liftedFresh citrus and stony detail linger with energy and focus. Reviews & AccoladesWell-defined bouquet with citrus peel and Granny Smith scents. Balance, some light tropical notes, and fine acidity with a touch of spice on the finish.” – Neal Martin, Vinous, 87–89 points Nose more restrained; oak not talking much. Fresh greener fruit, ripe yet with freshness, subtle finish. Drink 2026–2030.” – Jasper Morris MW, Inside Burgundy, 88–89 points Finer Details:Style – White WineVarietal – ChardonnayCountry – FranceRegion – Burgundy (Auxey-Duresses, Cote de Beaune)Vintage – 2023Bottle Size – 750mlABV – 13%Closure – Cork