Santenay 1er Cru AOP – Domaine Chapelle – Les Gravières – white

Description

The white Santenay 1er Cru – Les Gravières from Domaine Chapelle is a prestigious cuvée that embodies the elegance and complexity of the terroirs of the 1er Cru Les Gravières. Located on the southern slopes of the Côte de Beaune, this plot enjoys an ideal exposure, encouraging perfect ripening of the Chardonnay, the leading grape of the appellation. The clay-limestone soils, rich in minerals, give the wine fine depth and great finesse.

The vines, farmed under certified organic agriculture, benefit from the best environmentally friendly practices, with controlled yields and rigorous management of biodiversity. The harvest is manual, allowing meticulous selection of perfectly ripe grapes.

The winemaking follows traditional Burgundian methods. After a slow, gentle pressing, the must is settled naturally before fermenting in oak barrels (some of them new, to add complexity and subtlety). Fermentation is driven by indigenous yeasts and is followed by a full malolactic fermentation to add roundness and suppleness. Ageing lasts around 12 months on fine lees in oak barrels, with regular lees stirring to add richness and texture while preserving the freshness of the fruit.

The Santenay 1er Cru – Les Gravières shows a bright, pale gold colour that invites you to taste. The nose is subtle and complex, blending aromas of white flowers, ripe fruit (pear, Golden apple), buttery notes, light vanilla and a mineral touch typical of the terroir. On the palate, the attack is elegant and precise, with lovely zesty freshness. The wine then unfolds a silky texture, a perfect balance between roundness and liveliness. The finish is long, persistent and mouth-watering, with notes of lemon zest and minerality.

This Santenay 1er Cru is a great white for fine dining, pairing beautifully with refined dishes such as fish in sauce, seafood, shellfish or mature hard cheeses. This wine can also develop beautifully in the cellar, the vintage keeping for 5 to 8 years, revealing the full complexity and depth of its terroir.