François De Nicolay Mâcon-Villages Burgundy, France 2020

Style:  White Burgundy

Vintage: NV

ABV: 12% 

Region:  Burgundy 

Country:  France 

Varietals:  Chardonnay 

Pairing Ideas: This is a perfect aperitif during the holidays, with generous baked bread notes from the Lees Contact, lively orchard fruit of apple and pear, and plenty of minerality. A recent home run was a coho salmon caviar dollop on a classic kettle chip for a small gathering. Try it; it works. Cheers! 

Profile: Domaine Chandon de Briailles has been in the family since 1834. Initially, there were only the Savigny-lès-Beaune and Pernand-Verglesses vineyards. Coming from two mono-varietals (Pinot Noir and Chardonnay) our wines strongly express the authenticity of their terroir. Our Grands Crus are cultivated in the traditional method using our own plow horses. In 2005 we completely converted to biodynamic farming. We applied for certification with EcoCert and Demeter, which we received in 2011. The longer we continue farming in this way, the more we can see the difference in the vines. They grow differently; they seem more alive and healthy, and they are better balanced between acidity and aromas at harvest.

After inspecting the grapes during veraison and harvest, we make a selection that can support elevage without added sulfur or yeasts- wines from pure grape must. The grapes ferment and mature in our Savigny Les Beaune cellar (a very old cave), without pump-over, filtration, or sulfur, and are bottled by hand via the “chevre a deux becs” method. In this way, we can preserve the wine’s freshness and allow the terroir to express itself clearly.