Saint-Véran Les Prés Bâtards 2022 – Pacaud Vignerons

The depth of Chardonnay meets the minerality of Burgundy

Produced from old vines on the steep slopes of the Arlois valley in Chasselas, this Saint-Véran reveals the more intense and structured side of Chardonnay from the Mâconnais. Les Prés Bâtards 2022 combines ripe fruit, mineral energy and subtle toasted notes while retaining precision and freshness.

The vines, around 50 years old, grow in very shallow soils characterised by sandstone bedrock and limestone containing entroques. This distinctive geological setting contributes to the wine’s individuality and strong sense of place.

The winemaker’s notes

Les Prés Bâtards is a Chardonnay that delivers depth without losing definition. Ripe fruit and citrus and exotic-fruit aromas mingle with toasted nuances and pronounced minerality. Ageing on the lees adds structure and complexity, while a slightly almond-like finish gives the wine a distinctive character and invites another sip.

This is a white wine with real presence, ideal for those looking for a Burgundy Chardonnay with enough intensity and personality to complement food.

Yuri Stefani

Why we chose it

For its ability to combine richness with precision. It showcases the more structured side of Chardonnay while preserving freshness and a mineral backbone. Respectful handling of the grapes and a low-intervention approach in the cellar complete its profile.

The terroir

The Saint-Véran appellation lies in the Mâconnais, in the southern part of Burgundy. The Les Prés Bâtards vineyard is located in Chasselas, on the slopes of the Arlois valley, with a south-western exposure.

The steep slopes and shallow soils, composed of sandstone bedrock and limestone containing entroques, contribute to a concentrated, mineral expression of Chardonnay.

The winery

Pacaud Vignerons is a family-run domaine in the Mâconnais, focused on expressing the character of each individual vineyard. Its approach favours hand harvesting, indigenous yeasts and minimal intervention in the cellar. The domaine began its organic certification process in 2019, and its wines from the 2022 vintage onwards can carry organic certification.

Technical details

Producer: Pacaud Vignerons

Appellation: Saint-Véran AOC

Cuvée: Les Prés Bâtards

Vintage: 2022

Country: France

Region: Burgundy, Mâconnais

Grape variety: 100% Chardonnay

Vine age: Around 50 years

Viticulture: Organic

Harvest: Hand-picked

Vinification: Direct pressing of whole bunches, fermentation with indigenous yeasts and no added sulphur dioxide

Ageing: 12 months on the lees in 500-litre oak barrels, followed by 10 months in vats on the lees after blending

Alcohol: 13.5% ABV

Serving temperature: 9–12 °C

Ageing potential: Up to around 10 years, depending on storage and bottle conditions

In the glass

Colour: Deep gold with golden highlights.

Nose: Precise and complex, with citrus, exotic fruit and ripe yellow fruit, complemented by delicate toasted notes.

Palate: Full and concentrated, supported by pronounced minerality. Rich yet lively, with a long, persistent finish featuring subtle bitter hints and toasted nuances.

Food pairings

Excellent with baked or grilled fish, shellfish, scallops, seafood risotto and flavourful fish dishes. Its structure also makes it a good match for white meats, roast poultry and semi-hard cheeses.

Serving temperature: 9–12 °C.