Domaine Les Vieux Murs, Pouilly-Fuissé, Burgundy, France, 2024

Producer Profile

Jean-Paul Paquet began to work the vines of Les Vieux Murs in 1978, where the Chardonnay grape thrives amidst the limestone and clay soils of the Mâconnais.

At Domaine Les Vieux Murs, the 30-50 year old vines are planted in perfect balance to produce fruit of optimum ripeness. Jean-Paul has now been joined by in the family business his son Yannick, who travelled widely to broaden viticultural knowledge and is now earning himself an enviable reputation as a winemaker.

Viticulture

The Fuissé region in the south of Burgundy is 250-300 metres above sea level. The soil there is predominatly argilo-calcareous. At Fussiacus the average vine age is 25 years so that the plants are in balance and at their peak of production. The techniques are those of organic farming albeit not certified. The harvest here is by hand.

Winemaking

This Pouilly Fuissé is produced in the traditional Burgundy style, with entirely manual grape harvesting. The grapes are gently pressed using a pneumatic press. The must is then fermented in French oak "Foudres" of 25 hectolitres using only natural yeast. The wine goes through malolactic fermentation in oak and is matured for a further 9 months.

Tasting Note

This appellation is often overlooked, a crime! An intense mineral and citrus character with strong hints of complex nutty, buttery flavours. Very well balanced with crisp acidity and good texture, this is a concentrated yet elegant wine.

Food Matching

Fantastic with fish starters, veal and white meats in cream sauces.