($13, Dreyfus, Ashby & Co.): The Mâcon-Villages regional category of Burgundy is my go-to area for well-priced Chardonnay-based wines. Sadly, the overall quality of Mâcon-Villages is highly variable. That’s why it’s important to find ones from top-notch producers, such as Drouhin, a leading Burgundy négociant. One of the truly remarkable things about Drouhin is that their “simple,” everyday wines, such as this Mâcon-Villages have the same elegance found in their “important,” special-occasion ones. This bargain-priced Mâcon-Villages has a bit of everything — green apple notes, bright freshness — without having too much of anything. It has extraordinary balance and breeding for a wine at this price. Buy it by the case. You and your guests will love it.
89 Michael Apstein Sep 2, 2014