Viniou Reviews
Château Fuissé “Le Clos Monopole” 2020 is a remarkable white Burgundy showcasing the quintessence of Chardonnay, the grape behind all the great white wines from this region. This single-vineyard “Monopole” is a singular parcel entirely owned by the estate, reflecting a unique microclimate and soil composition. Part of the Premier Cru classification, this cuvée benefits from meticulous viticulture and a traditional Burgundian vinification: hand-harvested grapes, gentle pressing, and fermentation in French oak barrels, followed by a careful maturation on fine lees. The result is a wine of depth and finesse, with an aromatic profile featuring notes of white peach, citrus blossom, toasted almonds and a subtle minerality, underpinned by a creamy yet taut texture. The 2020 vintage in Burgundy was marked by a warm, early season yielding grapes with impressive ripeness, balanced by lively natural acidity.
Burgundy is one of the most celebrated wine regions in the world, renowned for its patchwork of distinct terroirs. The limestone-rich soils of the Mâconnais, where Château Fuissé is located, provide the Chardonnay grape with its signature minerality and finesse. The region benefits from a semi-continental climate, with enough warmth to achieve perfect grape maturity while retaining the freshness vital for balance. Burgundy’s history is deeply rooted in monastic tradition, with centuries-old expertise and a strict focus on quality and expression of place.
For food pairing, Le Clos Monopole 2020 excels with refined, subtly flavoured dishes. Classic matches include Bresse chicken in creamy sauce, pike quenelles with Nantua sauce, or scallops à la plancha. Its complex structure and vibrant acidity also make it an excellent partner for rich seafood dishes, lobster or even an aged Comté cheese, a nod to the region’s culinary heritage.
To fully appreciate its aromatic precision and complexity, serve this wine chilled but not too cold, ideally at 11-13°C. Consider decanting for 30 minutes to let it express its full range of aromas. This wine has the potential to evolve beautifully over the coming years, rewarding patience with increased depth and roundness.
