Wines Pouilly-Fuissé Olivier Merlin - 2023

Viniou Reviews

Olivier Merlin's 2023 Pouilly-Fuissé is a classic expression of this celebrated appellation in southern Burgundy. Made exclusively from Chardonnay grapes, it reflects both the finesse of the varietal and the unique character bestowed by the region's limestone and clay soils. The 2023 vintage benefited from a relatively temperate growing season, allowing the grapes to ripen slowly, resulting in a wine with both freshness and depth. Merlin, known for precise and thoughtful vinification, favours gentle pressing and fermentation in both stainless steel and oak, in order to balance purity of fruit with subtle complexity from maturation on the fine lees.

Pouilly-Fuissé lies at the southern tip of the Mâconnais subregion, where Burgundy transitions towards Beaujolais. Here, the climate is slightly warmer than the Côte d'Or, producing Chardonnays with ripe orchard fruit, floral lift, and a characteristic mineral backbone, thanks in large part to the ancient limestone slopes. The tradition of winemaking in this area dates back centuries, and recent decades have seen a real renaissance of quality. With its rolling hills, patchworked vineyards, and history woven into every plot, Pouilly-Fuissé produces some of Burgundy’s most charming whites—wines that balance accessibility with depth, and elegance with expressive fruit.

For food pairings, this wine’s lively energy and fine texture make it highly versatile at the table. It will sing alongside classic Burgundian dishes like escargots in garlic and parsley butter, or a delicate pike quenelle with a light beurre blanc. Its citrus and stone fruit notes, along with subtle oak, pair perfectly with roast chicken, seared scallops, or a creamy mushroom risotto. For a regional touch, serve with Bresse poultry or goat’s cheese from the Mâconnais.

To make the most of its aromatics and nuance, serve Olivier Merlin's Pouilly-Fuissé 2023 chilled, ideally between 10-12°C. Enjoy its youthful vivacity now, or let it develop for a few more years to reveal additional layers of complexity.