Our initial tastings of the reds and whites from the 2022 vintage in Burgundy showcase an irresistible freshness, a palate-seducing concentration, and an enchanting drinkability that captivates from the very first sip. The warmth of the 2022 growing season reveals wines with a slightly acidic touch. These wines share a universal, almost rebellious freshness, with a return to normal production volumes, a welcome respite after the modest offerings of 2015, 2016, 2017, and 2021.
Facing early frost threats in spring, the vines held their ground, and the warm, dry embrace of May during flowering set the stage for a promising harvest. A summer painted in hues of heat, with sporadic rains and storms, oscillated between the extremes of very dry and very, very humid. An early harvest followed, with grapes reaching a delightful stage of maturity by the end of August.
In the realm of whites, a triumphant moment unfolds. Cellars, once parched, now brim with the generosity of the 2023 harvest, and a sense of joy pervades the air. The purity of the fruit becomes the anthem as Chardonnays exhibit fresh energy, delicate textures, and harmonious balance. 2022 emerges as the white Burgundy vintage that enthusiasts eagerly awaited, a masterpiece ready to be explored.
Now, let’s turn our attention to the reds, each barrel revealing a captivating range of styles in the symphony of 2022. While whites harmonize in a uniform melody of fruit-focused allure, the reds embark on a journey from light freshness to structured and darker tones. Moderate acidity, like an agile dance, orchestrates the malolactic fermentation, making the wines delights to taste directly from the barrel.
Winemakers, in their artistic efforts, juggle choices that elevate the discourse. Some find solace in the warmth of the season, opting for whole clusters with ripe stems, while others, mindful of fruit volume, take a different path by destemming to maintain balance.
A glance at the market reveals a welcome release from the constraints of occasionally skyrocketing prices in Burgundy. Quick action in purchasing could be the key to securing a few bottles of this masterpiece in the making. The wines, a harmonious ensemble, devoid of the high-intensity drama of recent vintages, unveil a delicate charm, concealing depths and beauty that captivate the soul. It’s a vintage of juicy, fragrant, and exceptionally flavorful wines, even for village appellations. Further up the scale, exceptional quality manifests, with the grand terroirs producing wines of elegance and poise, inviting enthusiasts to dive into the enchanting world of 2022 !
