From the foothills of the French Alps, Yves Duport crafts this elegant Chardonnay in the small, mountainous appellation of Bugey, a hidden gem between Burgundy and Savoie. The cool alpine climate and limestone-rich soils bring freshness and precision, while careful, low-intervention winemaking preserves purity of fruit and a true sense of place.

The wine opens with delicate aromas of white flowers, citrus and ripe orchard fruit, underpinned by subtle mineral notes. On the palate, it’s vibrant and well-balanced, with crisp acidity, a smooth texture and a clean, refreshing finish. Both expressive and refined, this is a versatile Chardonnay that pairs beautifully with roast chicken, seafood or creamy pasta dishes. A superb discovery from one of eastern France’s most exciting emerging regions.

Chardonnay (100%)

Chardonnay is one of the most versatile and widely planted white grape varieties in the world, renowned for its adaptability to diverse climates and winemaking styles. Originating in Burgundy, where it reaches its most elegant and mineral expression, Chardonnay can range from crisp and steely to rich and opulent, depending on where and how it is made. Its relatively neutral character allows it to reflect both terroir and technique—whether aged in stainless steel for a lean, citrus-driven profile, or in oak barrels to develop notes of vanilla, toast, and creamy texture. Flavours often include apple, pear, lemon, peach, and tropical fruits, with cool-climate examples offering tension and minerality, while warmer regions yield fuller, rounder styles. From Chablis to Napa, Margaret River to Sicily, Chardonnay remains a benchmark for quality and diversity in white wine.

BugeyTucked between the Jura Mountains and the Savoie Alps in eastern France, AOP Bugey is one of the country’s most charming and little-known wine regions. Its rolling limestone hills, cool alpine climate, and varied soils create wines of remarkable freshness and individuality.

Bugey produces a diverse range of styles, from crisp, mineral-driven Chardonnays and delicate Pinot Noirs to expressive Gamays and lively sparkling wines (notably Bugey-Cerdon). The combination of altitude, diurnal temperature shifts, and small-scale, artisanal producers ensures vibrant acidity and purity of fruit across the range.

For those seeking authentic, mountain-influenced French wines with character and charm, Bugey is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.