Jean-Marie Guffens has dedicated a lifetime to making the best Chardonnay from the Maconnais. His Domaine Guffens-Heynen wines receive critical acclaim, with the Wine Advocate’s William Kelley calling it “one of the great domaines of Burgundy”. These are now strictly allocated and much more expensive in the open market. His négociant wines, from Maison Verget offer exceptional value despite the same hand and attention to detail. Verget is “a reference point for the Maconnais” says Kelley, producing wines that put many Côte de Beaune whites to shame. With the aid of winemaker Julien Desplans, the whites Jean-Marie makes here have immediate drinkability yet the depth and power to age, particularly now they are largely bottled for us under screwcap. Low yields often harvested over several weeks by hand, expert use of the press and varied élevage produce wines of great character, matching ripeness with striking acidity. Jean-Marie’s playfulness and anti-establishment leanings can be seen through his unique, storied cuvées like Lieu Secret and Lieu (Inter)dit, as can his prowess as a winemaker in the now-upgraded Premier Crus Sur La Roche and Les Crays. Verget is one of Farr Vintners’ best-selling producers; the quality to price ratio keeps those in the know coming back for more.
