Wines Rully Domaine Villaine - Les Saint-Jacques - 2022

Domaine de Villaine’s Rully ‘Les Saint-Jacques’ 2022 is an exemplary white Burgundy from one of the Côte Chalonnaise’s most respected producers. Crafted exclusively from Chardonnay, this cuvée hails from a single lieu-dit, ‘Les Saint-Jacques’, renowned for its limestone-rich soils and ideal east-facing slopes. The 2022 vintage offered both generosity and freshness, with the estate favouring organic farming and gentle vinification to preserve the integrity of the terroir. Fermentation takes place in oak barrels, typically with minimal new wood to maintain the vibrant character of the fruit, followed by a period of ageing on fine lees to add subtle complexity and structure.

The Côte Chalonnaise, found just south of the Côte d’Or, possesses a cooler climate moderated by altitude and prevailing winds. Its limestone and marl soils impart an unmistakable minerality and tension to the wines, characteristics that have made Rully whites particularly popular. Historically, Rully has a long-standing reputation for elegant, textured Chardonnays, bridging the freshness typical of more northerly appellations with a generosity akin to the wines further south.

This Rully is beautifully suited to dishes that complement its precise structure and nuanced aromatics. Classically, it will shine alongside seared scallops in a beurre blanc, a creamy poultry fricassée, or risotto with spring vegetables. Regional pairings such as jambon persillé or even a delicate comté cheese board will also allow the wine to express its Burgundian roots.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine slightly chilled, ideally between 10-12°C. Decanting for 20-30 minutes can add further aromatic depth, bringing forward notes of white blossom, citrus zest, and a touch of hazelnut. This is a wine that will develop gracefully over a few years, but its youthful vibrancy makes it equally delightful now.