If you’re a wine lover like me, there’s little better than an invitation to a wine tasting in Singapore at the iconic Raffles Hotel. On 18 February, I was lucky to taste wines from the hidden gem Mâcon wine region. It’s a French appellation known for its fresh, fruit-forward Chardonnay wines, and light, easy-drinking Gamay reds. With 14 wineries attending the event, I enjoyed not only tasting the refined vintages, but also finding out all about the Mâcon wine region. Here’s what I learned, and why I’ll definitely be sharing a glass or two with friends in the future. They are also holding more wine tastings in Singapore.
A little bit about the Mâcon wine region
Found in France’s southern Bourgogne, the Mâcon wine region is an AOC appellation known for its excellent Gamay and Chardonnay wine varieties. With its limestone and clay soils and warm climate, the region produces wines with freshness, depth, roundness and balance. Divided into 27 appellations, each has its own distinct terroir, which contributes to the wines’ diverse flavours and complexity. Representing 16% of Bourgogne’s total production, Mâcon wines are widely available and affordable. This makes them a great choice for beginners and sommeliers alike.
Versatile Mâcon Chardonnay wine
Mâcon is the place to be for Chardonnay lovers, with the grape covering over 90% of its vineyards. These wines are known for pale gold hues, often tinged with silver or green. Aromas are beautifully layered – with floral notes of honeysuckle, white rose, and acacia mingling with citrusy grapefruit and mandarin, while herbal hints of verbena and lemongrass add depth. On the nose, the palate ranges from fresh and zesty to round and creamy, influenced by varying terroir and aging processes. Some wines are bright and fruit-forward, while oak-aged varieties develop rich vanilla and toasted almond nuances. With balanced acidity and a smooth finish, Mâcon Chardonnay wine pairs well with seafood, poultry, and creamy cheeses. Perfect and versatile for every style of entertaining!
Bright and fruity Mâcon Gamay
While I’ve enjoyed more than a few Pinot Noirs in my day, I’d not yet heard of Gamay. In fact, Mâcon is unique for its focus on Gamay, setting it apart from the Pinot Noir-dominated regions nearby. Gamay thrives in the area’s soils, producing light-bodied, fruit-forward reds bursting with raspberry and cherry notes, accented by a touch of spice. Known for their refreshing acidity, smooth texture, and easy-drinkability, these wines are approachable and designed to enjoy young. A food-friendly wine, pair Gamay with charcuterie, grilled meats and local spicy dishes. Their crisp, fruit-driven style makes them a great choice for our warm Singapore climate and casual lifestyle, where a lighter red is preferable.
Wine tasting Mâcon’s Gamay and Chardonnay wine
I was joined by 140 wine industry professionals in the beautiful East India room at Raffles Hotel to experience the elegant flavours of Mâcon’s white, red, and rosé wines. Amazingly, it’s the first time that Mâcon wineries have come out to tour Asia!
I loved wandering around the room, meeting the wine makers and hearing their stories with the help of interpreters. What struck me aside from the incredible (and affordable!) wine, was the passion of each vigneron. I could have spent all day listening to their often multi-generational family histories.
My Francophile brother has accused me of not appreciating his Chardonnay wine – as I lean towards a lighter Riesling. So I was keen to try a wider variety of Chardonnay wine to find a favourite. I was not disappointed! The fresh, citrus, pale gold wines aged in stainless steel vats were initially my stand-out choices. But as I sampled more, I came to appreciate the deeper yellow hues of the oak-aged varieties which felt were more rounded and smooth on the palate. As for the Gamays, there was everything to like about these vibrant, ruby coloured wines with their fruity, spicy bouquet. I can see myself opening (and easily polishing off) a bottle with friends over a cheese board on a Friday night.
Experience Mâcon wines for yourself
Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or new to French wines, the Mâcon wine region delivers on both quality and value. From its crisp and complex Chardonnays to its lively and fruit-forward Gamays, you really can’t go wrong. Why not try one for yourself at one of their wine tastings in Singapore.
Mâcon Wines
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Images: Copyright Droits réservés | Union des Producteurs de Vins Mâcon
