Wines Meursault Maison Roche de Bellene - Vieilles Vignes - 2020

Viniou Reviews

Maison Roche de Bellene’s Meursault Vieilles Vignes 2020 is an exceptional white Burgundy, crafted from Chardonnay vines that are impressively old—hence the designation "Vieilles Vignes." This wine is a reflection of its noble terroir, where the grapes are sourced from several prized plots within the Meursault appellation. The 2020 vintage benefitted from a warm, dry growing season, ensuring full phenolic ripeness while retaining a signature freshness. The vinification practices at Maison Roche de Bellene lean towards minimal intervention, favouring native yeasts for fermentation and subsequent ageing in quality French oak barrels. This process imbues the wine with a profound structure while allowing the mineral core to shine. In the glass, expect a bouquet of ripe stone fruits, roasted hazelnuts, a touch of white flowers and a whisper of smoky oak. The palate is broad yet poised, with creamy texture harmoniously balanced by vibrant acidity and a lingering, saline finish.

Meursault is situated within the legendary Côte de Beaune, known for producing some of the greatest white wines in the world. The region enjoys a continental climate with pronounced seasonal contrasts, benefitting from sunny summers and cool harvest nights. The soils here are predominantly marly limestone, which imparts remarkable minerality and vivacity to Chardonnay. Historically, Meursault has been celebrated since at least the Middle Ages, cementing its place among Burgundy enthusiasts for its complex, age-worthy wines.

For food pairings, this Meursault Vieilles Vignes shines alongside classic dishes such as pan-fried scallops with beurre blanc, roasted chicken with morel mushrooms, or a regional favourite, quenelles de brochet. The wine’s depth and subtle oak also make it an excellent companion to creamy cheeses such as Comté or Brie de Meaux, or even a simple risotto with wild mushrooms.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this Meursault at 12-14°C. Allow the wine some time to breathe in the glass or decanter to fully unfurl its aromatic complexity. This wine can be enjoyed now for its youthful precision but will reward cellaring for five to eight years to develop deeper, nutty nuances.