In France’s Cote Chalonnaise, terrific wines for more affordable price

Here are five of my favorites from recent tastings of Cote Chalonnaise wines.

Louis Jadot Domaine Gagey Bouzeron 2016: three stars; Burgundy, France, $27 (great value)

Aligoté, chardonnay’s nearly forgotten cousin in Burgundy, was traditionally blended with cassis to make a Kir cocktail. When treated with respect, it makes a delicious wine, lighter in body than chardonnay, but with the same mineral and terroir aspects of white Burgundy. The Domaine Gagey from Louis Jadot is expansive and fruity, yet that mineral core shows through on the lengthy finish. Alcohol by volume: 12.5 percent.

Domaine de la Folie Rully Clos la Folie Monopole 2017: three stars; Burgundy, $35

Beautifully expressive, with a perfect balance of fruit, oak and terroir, this chardonnay should stand proud among more famous (and more expensive) white burgundies. The label explains the name “Folie” as coming from an ancient belief that the nearby forest was a hideout for spirits. This wine sure is spirited. ABV: 13.5 percent.

Laurent Cognard & Co. Montagny 1er Cru “Les Bassets” 2016/2017: three stars; Burgundy, $46

Lithe, nimble and electric, this chardonnay seems to be channeling energy from within the earth. I tasted the 2016; the importer has recently introduced the 2017. Laurent Cognard also produces a less expensive (and less expressive) chardonnay whimsically called “Le Chard” and a pinot noir. ABV: 13.5 percent.

Maison Chanzy Bouzeron Clos de la Fortune Monopole 2016: two and a half stars; Burgundy, $24 (great value)

This aligoté from Maison Chanzy shows the care given to a wine produced from a single estate-owned (monopole) vineyard. The emphasis here is on mineral structure and less on fruit. ABV: 12.5 percent.

Maison Louis Latour Mercurey Rouge 2016: two and a half stars; Burgundy, $25 (great value)

This is a lovely “village” wine, one step up the hierarchy but at the same price as many wines labeled “Bourgogne.” Aromas of truffles and autumn leaves, flavors of dark cherries and plums all pinot noir signatures - are held together by noticeable, though not overbearing, acidity. This wine is light enough to drink with casual meals but substantive enough to enjoy with hearty, fancier foods as well. ABV: 13 percent.

Ratings: 3 stars: Exceptional; 2 stars: Excellent; 1 star: Very good. Prices are approximate. Check Winesearcher.com to verify availability, or ask a favorite wine store to order through a distributor.