Domaine La Croix Montjoie’s Cuvée L'Élégante 2021 from Bourgogne Vézelay is an expressive white crafted exclusively from Chardonnay grapes. This particular cuvée is emblematic of modern Burgundy whites: precise, mineral-driven and elegantly textured. The 2021 vintage saw a cooler growing season, yielding wines that are notably fresh, crisp, and energetic. The vineyards of Vézelay benefit from clay-limestone soils on gentle hillsides, providing exceptional drainage and lending the wine its distinctive minerality. Vinification here typically involves controlled temperature fermentation to preserve the aromatic purity of the Chardonnay, and ageing, often on fine lees, to enhance mouthfeel and complexity.
Bourgogne Vézelay is a relatively recent appellation in Burgundy’s canon, but the area has a centuries-old viticultural tradition, revitalised in recent decades by dedicated growers. Situated in the Yonne department, north of the Côte d’Or, the region enjoys a continental climate with pronounced seasonal variations. Cool springs and warm summers foster slow, steady grape development, and the limestone-rich soils echo those of Chablis to the north, contributing tension and finesse. While Vézelay once fell into obscurity, today it is known for producing fresh, saline, and floral-driven Chardonnays that reflect their unique terroir.
This wine’s poised, mineral palate and zesty acidity make it a wonderful partner for a wide array of dishes. The classic pairing would be with seafood: think oysters, crab, or a simple pan-seared sea bass with a squeeze of lemon. Its vibrancy also stands up well to goat cheese, especially the regional Crottin de Chavignol, or a warm cheese gougère. For something more substantial, try it with roast chicken in a creamy tarragon sauce, or regional specialities such as jambon persillé, a parsleyed ham terrine.
For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine chilled but not icy—ideally between 10-12°C. Decanting for 30 minutes can help it open up, unveiling subtle floral and citrus notes that linger on the finish. This is a wine to savour in good company, highlighting the understated elegance of lesser-known Burgundy.
