Viniou Reviews
The 2019 Domaine Roulot Bourgogne Blanc is an exceptional white Burgundy, crafted primarily from Chardonnay grapes sourced from various parcels within the regional Bourgogne AOC. Renowned for his meticulous approach, Jean-Marc Roulot employs manual harvesting and traditional vinification, with fermentation in oak barrels, of which only a small proportion are new, preserving purity and tension in the wine. The 2019 vintage in Burgundy was marked by a warm growing season, leading to ripe yet beautifully balanced fruit, and the domaine’s hallmark is its precise expression of freshness and mineral character even in generous years.
Burgundy’s terroir is central to the identity of its wines. The region enjoys a semi-continental climate, with cold winters and warm, sometimes hot summers. The soils in the Bourgogne AOC are predominantly limestone and clay, ideal for growing Chardonnay, imparting a pronounced minerality and elegance to the wines. Burgundy has a long, storied history of viticulture, dating back to the Romans and perfected by monastic orders, with a distinct emphasis on the relationship between grape variety, soil, and microclimate. Although this wine bears the broader Bourgogne AOC designation rather than a village or premier cru, Roulot’s craftsmanship lifts it to a level well above its official rank.
For food pairings, this wine’s energy, minerality, and subtle richness make it very versatile at the table. Try it with seafood like poached scallops, oysters, or grilled river fish to highlight its crispness. It will also compliment poultry dishes in creamy sauces, as well as classic Burgundian specialties such as jambon persillé or escargots with garlic butter. A young comté or a fresh goat’s cheese would also find a perfect partner in this Chardonnay’s finesse.
To best appreciate the aromatic nuance and textural precision of the 2019 Domaine Roulot Bourgogne Blanc, serve it chilled but not overly cold, ideally at 10-12°C. Decanting is not required but allowing the wine a little time in the glass will reveal greater complexity with aeration. This is a delightful wine to enjoy now yet holds potential for a few years of cellaring if you wish to develop more layered, nutty notes.
