Rully 1er Cru blanc „Rabourcé“ 2022

Wine Description for Rully 1er Cru blanc „Rabourcé“ 2022 by A. et P. de Villaine

Character

When the name de Villaine appears on a label, one is entitled to expect great things – and this Rully does not disappoint. Aubert de Villaine, co-director of the legendary Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, devotes himself together with his wife Pamela in Bouzeron to a more modest, yet no less fascinating endeavour: bringing the underestimated appellations of the Côte Chalonnaise to new lustre. The Rabourcé is a classical Burgundian Chardonnay with precision and depth, characterised by mineral tension and an elegance that combines restraint with substance.

Terroir & Origin

The Premier Cru vineyard site Rabourcé lies on the gentle slopes of Rully, south of the more celebrated Côte de Beaune. The calcareous soils impart to the wine that characteristic minerality which distinguishes Burgundian Chardonnays. The cooler climate of the Côte Chalonnaise ensures a longer ripening period and preserves the natural freshness of the grapes. De Villaine works here with the same care as in Romanée-Conti: biodynamic viticulture, low yields, hand-harvesting – principles that give expression to the terroir.

Grape Variety & Vinification

Chardonnay from Burgundy is the benchmark by which the world measures itself. De Villaine relies on traditional vinification: ageing in barrels, including a moderate proportion of new oak, which structures the wine without dominating it. The malolactic fermentation softens the natural acidity and lends the wine a creamy texture. The result is a Chardonnay that balances fruit and minerality, with notes of white flowers, citrus fruits and a subtle spice.

Food Pairing Suggestions

This wine demands equally considered cuisine: roasted monkfish, scallops with beurre blanc, Bresse chicken with morels or a mature Comté. The mineral structure makes it an ideal companion to oysters or langoustines. A wine that settles at the table and demonstrates what Burgundian craftsmanship can achieve beyond the Grand Crus.