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

Title: A masterful touch of Chardonnay - Île des Vergelesses Blanc 2018

In the picturesque vineyards of Pernand-Vergelesses, consider the impressive Chandon de Briailles estate, and in particular its premium site - Île des Vergelesses. With direct contact with both Savigny's Les Vergelesses and Pernand's Les Vergelesses, this wine exudes a quality that lifts it straight to the podium of Grand Cru level.

The magical equation, where pebbly and calcareous red marl meets a high iron content, resembles that of Corton hills, providing an exceptional terroir for Chardonnay. Of the 13.31 hectares of Pinot part of the estate, the Chandon de Briailles Chardonnay gets just under one hectare, nestled in dense bushes planted between 1985 and 1991. This exceptional drop undergoes whole-cluster pressing, then ferments spontaneously in carefully aged barriques. Over the course of 14 months, the wine is aged on its full lees, without the need for batonnage, and then carefully bottled with minimal sulphur.

An exquisite example of Chardonnay, the Île des Vergelesses Blanc 2018 shines in a light to medium straw yellow. The nose is treated to a precise, strong and clear fragrance, interwoven with the crisp freshness of limes and lemons and the juicy sweetness of green apples and vinegars. There is also a subtle hint of hazelnut, quality smoky wood and complex notes of flint and green pineapple.

The palate opens to a sensory journey that leaves a deep impression. The vibrant energy and swashbuckling polish gained from the proximity to Corton are recognisably inspiring. The wine captivates with its juicy, citrus-fresh personality, an elegant and fine texture and a punchy acidity that hardly hints at a warm year. Details of pervasive minerality, chalky aromas, bracing salt and lemons, along with hints of white pepper and smoke on the finish, round out this exquisite experience. Already, this wine is so open and delicious that even the patience of a slow ageing in the cellar is being tested - although the potential is definitely there.

Try this radiant Chardonnay together with orecchiette with sea bass compote and strong mussel broth. Or enjoy it with grilled lobster in a delicate chicken broth flavoured with Szechuan pepper and green asparagus, or as an accompaniment to gnocchi with lemon butter, sage and fennel seeds. It is never too early to explore this excellent Chandon de Briailles wine.