We have just landed back in Mudgee after 5 weeks exploring the huge wine-growing region of Southern Burgundy, France, in our quest to find the perfect French Chardonnay. Our quest was sparked by the fact that this year we are making our first single-vineyard Chardonnay and we were looking for fresh inspiration to bring to the table. We spent many productive days meeting French winemakers, sampling the best on offer and learning how many French vignerons are now embracing biodynamic techniques in their vineyards.
In the domestic market, French winemakers have not embraced screw caps (except for the export market), instead sticking resolutely to the age-old cork seal.
After much searching, trying Chardonnays from Viré Clessé, Solutré, Saint Veran, Vergisson, Pierreclos and many other Southern Burgundy vineyards, we settled on a boutique Pouilly-Fuisse Chardonnay from the village of Fuisse. The wine is made in small quantities and is matured in only 3 large French oak barrels under the vigneron’s house near the centre of the village – and the winemaker is Argentinian!! Contact us if you would like more details about this very special wine.
Do you have a favourite French Chardonnay? Share your passion with us …. we would love to hear from you.
