Kermit Lynch on Day Four: A Rare White from Beaujolais
Today I’m excited to share something that almost never crosses our path: a Beaujolais Blanc. This isn’t just an example of an oddity, but a remarkable wine as well. The 2023 Domaine de la Prébende “Anna Asmaquer” comes from a minuscule two-acre parcel, making it as rare as any great Burgundy. This bottling is imported by Kermit Lynch, whose portfolio continues to champion small, authentic growers across France.
Produced by the Dupeuble family, longtime stewards of traditional Beaujolais, this wine is a beautiful tribute to heritage. The cuvée is named for Ghislaine’s great-grandmother, Anna Asmaquer, who married Jules Dupeuble in 1919. More than a symbolic nod, Anna was the driving force behind both the vineyards and the cellar,so it’s only fitting that her name now graces one of the domaine’s most distinctive wines. It’s no surprise that Kermit Lynch imports this wine. Few importers have done more to spotlight wines of honesty, history, and place that have real people behind them.
Beaujolais Blanc itself is something of an anomaly, which is the sort of uniqueness a wine needs in order to be featured in the KLWM portfolio. Appellation laws here dictate that white grapes can account for no more than 15% of any vineyard, inherently limiting production. Even more uniquely, Beaujolais Blanc must be made entirely from Chardonnay, while the region’s famous reds can include small amounts of white varieties like Aligoté. With the region’s overwhelming focus on red wine, it’s no surprise that examples like this remain largely under the radar.
Aged on the lees in stainless steel and bottled unfiltered, it delivers a vibrant, mineral-driven core alongside an unexpectedly aromatic bouquet. There’s a freshness and lift here that feels almost electric with bright orchard fruit, subtle florals, and a clean, stony finish.
Unlike many white Burgundies built for long aging, Beaujolais Blanc is all about immediacy and charm. This is a wine meant to be enjoyed in its youth, capturing the energy of the vintage and the purity of its tiny plot. I know it's been cold outside, but enjoy the next warm Spring day with a bottle of Beaujolais Blanc!
