Presentation of the Appellation

What is Pouilly-Fuissé?

Pouilly-Fuissé is an Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée (AOC) located in Burgundy, in the Mâconnais region. It produces exclusively white wines from the Chardonnay grape.

Where is the Pouilly-Fuissé appellation located?

The appellation extends over four communes: Solutré-Pouilly, Fuissé, Vergisson, and Chaintré, in southern Burgundy, near Beaujolais.

What is the grape variety of Pouilly-Fuissé?

Pouilly-Fuissé is made from Chardonnay, the emblematic grape variety of Burgundy.

What is the terroir of Pouilly-Fuissé?

The Pouilly-Fuissé terroir consists of clay-limestone and Meconesian soils, promoting mineral expression and aromatic complexity in the wines.

What are the most renowned crus or climats of the appellation?

Among the most famous climats are Les Vignes Blanches, Le Clos, Les Ménétrières, and Les Perrières.

Are there Premiers Crus in Pouilly-Fuissé?

Yes! Since 2020, 22 climats have obtained Premier Cru status, marking a recognition of the excellence of these terroirs. Pouilly-Fuissé 1er Cru is distinguished by its aromatic depth, richness, and aging capacity.

Wine Characteristics

What does a Pouilly-Fuissé wine taste like?

Pouilly-Fuissé offers a rich aromatic palette with notes of apple, pear, lemon, hazelnut, sometimes slightly toasted, as well as beautiful minerality.

Is Pouilly-Fuissé a dry or sweet white wine?

It is a dry white wine, often full-bodied and elegant, with nice vivacity.

What is the difference between Pouilly-Fuissé, Pouilly-Fumé, and Pouilly-sur-Loire?

• Pouilly-Fuissé: Burgundy white wine made from Chardonnay.
• Pouilly-Fumé: Loire white wine made from Sauvignon Blanc, characterized by mineral and smoky notes.
• Pouilly-sur-Loire: neighboring appellation to Pouilly-Fumé producing white wines based on Chasselas.

What is the price of a Pouilly-Fuissé?

The price varies depending on the producer and vintage, but expect to pay between 20 and 50 € for a quality bottle. This makes it good value for money compared to Crus located further north in Burgundy.

Are there red Pouilly-Fuissé wines?

No, the appellation produces only white wines. For a red from the same region, you need to look to neighboring appellations such as Mâcon or Mâcon-Villages.

Storage, Serving, and Food Pairings

What are the best vintages for Pouilly-Fuissé?

Among recent great vintages, we can mention: 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2020, offering good concentration and aging potential. For lovers of older vintages, 2005, 2009, and 2010 are also excellent choices, with wines that have gained complexity and depth over time.

How long can a Pouilly-Fuissé be kept?

A Pouilly-Fuissé can be kept for 5 to 10 years, or even longer for the best Premiers Crus.

How to serve a Pouilly-Fuissé?

• Ideal temperature: between 10 and 12°C.
• Decanting: recommended for young vintages to aerate the wine and release its aromas.

What dishes pair well with a Pouilly-Fuissé?

This wine pairs wonderfully with:

• Seafood and shellfish (scallops, oysters).
• Grilled or sauced fish.
• White meats (creamy poultry, veal).
• Pressed cheeses (Comté, Beaufort).
• Raclette: Yes indeed, a well-balanced Pouilly-Fuissé can be an excellent alternative to Savoie white wines! Its acidity and buttery notes pair well with melted cheese.

Conclusion

If you're looking for a great Burgundy white, you're in the right place! Pouilly-Fuissé is a safe bet, whether for a chic aperitif, a refined dinner, or even a raclette with friends. Discover our selection and let yourself be tempted by an exceptional Chardonnay!

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