The new 2020 vintage of our Own Selection Reserve White has arrived. It’s a new premium blend, and a brilliant alternative to white Burgundy, says Catriona Felstead MW. 

This year, we introduce the new rendition of our Reserve White. The latest vintage comes courtesy of Collovray & Terrier, who have made this vintage the finest to date. 

WHAT IS IT? 

The new Reserve White blend comes courtesy of winemakers Jean-Luc Terrier and Christian Collovray. It’s 100% Chardonnay, sourced exclusively from their domaine in the Limoux region of the Languedoc. 

Jean-Luc and Christian were recently hailed as Burgundy’s Winemakers of the Year by the renowned Gault-Millau guide and are better known for their exemplary white Burgundies. In recent years, however, this quality-conscious duo has been producing an outstanding range of wines from 30-year-old vines planted on limestone slopes 500 metres above sea level. 

WHY IS IT DIFFERENT? 

The 2020 vintage is a serious step up from previous vintages, as there is now a much greater proportion of Chardonnay in the blend from these older vineyards – which adds more detail and energy to the wine. As well as this, a proportion of the wine is now barrel-fermented, adding a delicious complexity. 

WHAT DOES IT TASTE LIKE? 

The wine is fresh, fine and elegant, with a lemon-lime refreshment and a creamy texture. The finish is long and rewarding. A saline note draws out the minerality derived from this parcel’s limestone soils, giving each sip a true sense of place. 

WHAT SHOULD I EAT WITH IT? 

This creamy, complex wine would pair well with any buttery, salty dishes. If you’re feeling particularly luxurious, pair it with lobster, or a creamy risotto. 

You can buy our 2020 Own Selection White Reserve or browse all of our Own Selection wines on bbr.com.