2010 Domaine des Nembrets Denis Barraud Pouilly-Fuissé "Sur La Roche" Vieilles Vignes

The value of this wine as compared to fine Côte d'Or whites is certainly not in dispute, but this is also generous enough to be a perfect "gateway" Burgundy for Chardonnay drinkers who sometimes get burned out with the pervasive California style. A waft of chamomile with pear and meyer lemon turning to tangerine as the wine opens up are pure and ample. Creamy and bright, the palate continues to gain traction for a long period of time and is best served barely chilled (a good litmus test for whites, IMO). The body and creamy mineral are reminiscent of Chassagne or Meursault, but I feel that this wine expresses a fruit profile and distinct terroir of Pouilly Fuisse that are well articulated by the old vine extract.

The best values in Chardonnay from Burgundy come from the Mâconnais district, the best wines of the Mâcon come from Pouilly-Fuissé, and the very best wines in Pouilly-Fuissé come from the tiny vineyard of "Sur La Roche". The 2010 Domaine des Nembrets Pouilly-Fuissé "Sur La Roche" Vieilles Vignes from Denis Barraud really demonstrates the character of this exceptional vineyard in one of the best vintages in recent memory. The wine is one of the most textured and concentrated Chardonnays I have yet tasted from this area. Crisp, clean, and dry, the wine has a remarkable freshness to it. Lightly floral on the nose with notes of acacia and Meyer lemon. Barrel aging adds a subtle spiciness (only 20% of the barrels are new). The wine is intensely mineral with a stony – almost earthy – character. With my nose in the glass I felt as if I were standing deep within a limestone cave, breathing air that had never seen the light of day. At a mere $23.99 the wine offers superb value – half the price of a comparable wine from the Côtes d’Or, and more than competitive with any similarly priced Chardonnay from California. A terrific value for anyone who enjoys white Burgundy as often as they can afford it, and a great introduction to the wines of the region for anyone seeking respite from the “oaky/buttery” domestic versions.

Awesome balance and integration from this stupendous vineyard and producer. Outrageous, creamy texture. Fabulous vibrant aromas of pineapple, spice, and exotic pomace fruit. It's like fantastic Puligny for a fraction of the price.