Viniou Reviews
Château S Rontets' 2023 "Les Birbettes" Pouilly-Fuissé embodies the finesse and complexity characteristic of Burgundy’s great Chardonnays. This cuvée, sourced from mature, organically cultivated vines, captures the essence of the "Les Birbettes" parcel—a lieu-dit famed for delivering delicate yet expressive fruit. The 2023 vintage reveals a luminous pale gold robe, with a bouquet featuring white orchard fruits, ripe pear, citrus zest and subtle notes of acacia blossom and hazelnut, supported by deftly integrated oak nuances. The palate boasts a remarkable balance between ripe fruit and an invigorating mineral backbone, typical of the region's famed limestone soils, culminating in a long, resonant finish with a hint of salinity. The attentive vinification, focused on minimal intervention and wild yeast fermentation, allows the terroir to take centre stage, resulting in a wine both pure and vibrant.
Pouilly-Fuissé sits at the heart of the Mâconnais, Southern Burgundy’s most prestigious white wine area. The region benefits from a slightly warmer climate than the Côte d’Or, favouring opulent yet fresh expressions of Chardonnay. Vineyards here are planted on slopes composed of fossil-rich limestone interlaced with marl, which impart the signature mineral clarity and tension for which the appellation is renowned. The Mâconnais has a rich history of viticulture that dates back to Roman times, with Pouilly-Fuissé officially recognised as an appellation since 1936 and some of its top sites recently elevated to Premier Cru status. The commitment to sustainable and organic practices further enhances the authenticity and expressiveness of its best wines.
This elegant white pairs beautifully with fine seafood such as scallops in beurre blanc, grilled lobster, or delicate fish dishes like sole meunière. Classic local matches include poulet de Bresse with morel mushrooms or a simple quenelle de brochet. For a refined vegetarian pairing, consider asparagus risotto finished with a dash of truffle oil. The wine’s freshness and minerality also complement mild goat’s cheeses from the region.
Serve well-chilled, ideally between 10-12°C, to showcase the full spectrum of aromatics and vibrant acidity. For optimal enjoyment, open young bottles 30 minutes before serving, or allow older examples a brief decant to reveal their layered complexity.
