Viniou Reviews
Éclat de Roches Pouilly-Fuissé Premier Cru 2016 is a brilliant ambassador for the prestigious Mâconnais region, showcasing the finesse and complexity that Chardonnay can express in this exceptional terroir. The 2016 vintage, marked by a relatively cool spring and an extended ripening season, allowed for an excellent balance between freshness and ripe fruit character. Careful vinification, often involving partial barrel fermentation and gentle lees ageing, enhances both aromatics and texture, resulting in a wine of notable elegance. The robe is a pale gold, while the nose bursts with notes of white peach, nectarine, and a delicate floral undertone, nuanced by subtle hazelnut and mineral nuances. The palate is both vibrant and rounded, offering a harmonious balance of citrus zest, ripe orchard fruit, and a refined mineral backbone characteristic of Pouilly-Fuissé’s famous limestone soils.
The Pouilly-Fuissé appellation lies in southern Burgundy’s Mâconnais, a picturesque area where vineyards embrace the gentle slopes and craggy outcrops of ancient Jurassic limestone. The region enjoys a predominantly continental climate with Mediterranean influences, resulting in sunny days and cool nights that are ideal for Chardonnay’s slow, graceful ripening. Historically, the area has produced white wines of great distinction since the 19th century, and the recent Premier Cru status highlights the unique potential of select vineyard parcels. Soils here are rich in marl and limestone, contributing a distinct minerality and tension to the resulting wines.
With its depth and clarity, this Pouilly-Fuissé Premier Cru lends itself beautifully to sophisticated food pairings. Classic accompaniments include pan-seared scallops, lobster with a lemon butter sauce, or a delicate pike quenelle – a proud regional specialty. It also partners splendidly with roast poultry and creamy mushroom dishes, as well as fine, mature cheeses such as Comté or Chaource. For a purist experience, serve slightly chilled at 11-13°C to allow its layered aromas and polished texture to shine. Decanting 30 minutes before serving can further enhance its aromatic complexity, making for an exquisite tasting moment.
