2010 Domaine Corinne & Thierry Drouin “La Roche” Macon-Vergisson AOC

Mission Codename: Return of the Poet

Operative: Agent White

Objective: Acquire a delicious and value oriented white Burgundy for our operatives

Mission Status: Accomplished!

Current Winery: Domaine Corinne & Thierry Drouin

Wine Subject: 2010 “La Roche” Mâcon-VergissonAOC

Backgrounder:

Located in the broader Burgundy region of the Mâconnais (about half way between Lyon and Beaune, Mâcon-Vergisson is one of the five communes located in and making up the Pouilly-Fuissé. The region’s wine-making history dates back about 1600 years. It is often grouped with Beaujolais (just south of the region) since its red grape is predominantly Gamay. The whites which make up most of the production (88%) in the region, like the rest of Burgundy, are Chardonnay. The wines of the Mâcon-Vergisson are known to be richer than its neighboring vineyard’s wines and have more aging potential.

Wine Spies Tasting Profile:

Look – Clear and bright golden with deep straw yellow tints that pales only slightly at the edges. When swirled, this slightly more springy wine leaves slow clusters of medium thick legs hang before deliberately descending to the wine below.

Smell – Aromatic in intensity, this wine initially greats you with an ripe and fragrant blend of sweet white peach and golden apple along with a touch of citrus fruit that blend with creamy vanilla and white floral notes. Layered underneath are balanced notes of spice, toasted oak, minerality, creamy vanilla, butter and a hint of nuttiness.

Feel – Smooth and dry with good weight, this medium to full-bodied white wine balances its vibrant acidity with its creamy and soft buttery texture and leaves a touch of spice on the back and sides of the tongue.

Taste – Rich, ripe and sweet stone, tree and citrus fruit that is integrated with tasted vanilla creme and a touch of butter, creamy vanilla and toasted oak. The white floral, nuttiness, spice and minerality form the nose find there way onto the palate in a balanced way.

Finish – Clean with its lingering flavors supported by both a touch of bright acidity and its creamy texture that lingers on the palate and invites another sip.

Conclusion – The 2010 Corinne & Thierry Drouin ‘La Roche’ Mâcon-Vergisson AOC is perhaps a little bit more ripe than the 2007 vintage that we featured last year. A delicious and expressive French Chardonnay that delivers great aromas, flavors and mouth-feel. This wine is perfect to pair with raw seafood, creamy avocado salad or lighter fare.

Wine Spies Vineyard Check:

The approximate location of the Domaine Corinne & Thierry Drouin can be seen in this satellite photo.