Saint Aubin Premier Cru

BACKGROUND

This is a single-vineyard Premier Cru, but Paul chooses not to put the name of the vineyard, Bas de Vermarain a l’Est, on the label. He says it’s too long and not a pretty name — even in French. So he simply puts Premier Cru on the label. Paul’s grandfather had planted this vineyard with Pinot Noir, but Paul’s dad switched it over to Chardonnay. Good move. The vineyard is in a prestigious part of the Saint Aubin bowl just over the hill from the Montrachet Grand Cru vineyard. Great location. This wine is often referred to as a “poor man’s Chassagne” because it tastes like a Chassagne-Montrachet, but has a much lower price point.

TASTING NOTES

Creamy citrus flavors with bright floral notes and some hints of butter. Pleasant streak of minerality on the mid palate. Noticeable structure and roundness give this wine a pleasant and full mouth feel. Excellent length on the finish.

FOOD PAIRINGS

Seafood. Roast Chicken. Shellfish. Veal in mushroom sauce. Cheeses, such as Brie.