2008 Extra

The 2008 Extra from Jean-Noël Haton combines 60% Chardonnay with 40% Pinot Noir, 15% of which was aged in wood. It matured for at least eight years and has developed a multi-layered bouquet: quince, bergamot and fruit paste, then roasted and grilled notes that shade into ginger, cinnamon and mint. It is delivered in a gift box.

On the palate it is silky and full without seeming broad. The measured dosage keeps it fresh, and the flavour lingers impressively long. It can be used as an aperitif, but it is at its best with lobster navarin with young vegetables, carpaccio of John Dory or chicken with freshwater crayfish. Serve it at 10 to 12 °C in a large white wine glass.