Pernand-Vergelesses 1er Cru “Île des Vergelesses” blanc 2018

Wine Description for Pernand-Vergelesses 1er Cru “Île des Vergelesses” blanc 2018 from Chandon de Briailles

Colour & Appearance

Pale to medium straw yellow, luminous and clear in the glass.

Nose

Stunningly precise and powerful. Intense limes and lemons, alongside green apples and ripening greengages. Subtle notes of hazelnut, delicate smoke and a hint of flint and green pineapple lend additional complexity to the bouquet.

Palate

Here the exceptional quality of this site reveals itself. Vibrant energy and powerful punch reminiscent of the finest Cortons. Juicy and marked by citric freshness, with an elegant, almost powdery texture. The forceful acidity barely hints that 2018 was a warm vintage. All-pervading minerality, chalk, invigorating salted lemon and a touch of white pepper.

Finish

Long and smoky, with persistent minerality and a saline echo that invites the next sip.

Terroir & Origin

The 9.41-hectare Premier Cru site Île des Vergelesses lies at Grand Cru level. The terroir is characterised by pebbly and calcareous red marl with high iron content – similar to the legendary Corton hill. The site is framed by Savigny’s and Pernand’s Les Vergelesses.

Grape Variety & Vinification

Chardonnay from vines planted in 1985 and 1991 (10,000 vines per hectare density). Whole-bunch pressing, spontaneous fermentation in predominantly neutral multi-year barrels. 14 months’ ageing on full lees without bâtonnage. Bottled with minimal sulphur.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Orecchiette with sea bass mousse and mussel stock, grilled langoustines in light chicken stock with Szechuan pepper and green asparagus or gnocchi with lemon beurre Bordier, sage and fennel pollen.

Special Features

A wine that impressively demonstrates its immediate proximity to Corton. Despite its enormous ageing potential, already seductively open and moreish now – a rare balancing act between drinking pleasure and cellaring ability.