DOMAINE DE VILLAINE BOUZERON ALIGOTE 2024 750ML

Domaine de Villaine was founded in 1971 when Aubert de Villaine, the legendary co-director of Domaine de la Romanée-Conti (DRC), and his wife, Pamela, acquired an estate in the forgotten village of Bouzeron in Burgundy's Côte Chalonnaise. Though the domaine was horribly run-down when the de Villaines took over, years of studying this unique terroir have made them pioneers in one of the last forgotten enclaves of Burgundy. The monks of the great abbey of Cluny first planted vines here in the twelfth century, leaving a legacy that has endured for centuries.

Although Chardonnay dominates the surrounding region, white Aligoté is the indisputable star here. Bouzeron is famous for cultivating Aligoté Doré rather than the lesser Aligoté Vert clone. This superior variety yields smaller harvests, resulting in wines characterized by significantly richer and more expressive aromatics.

This 2024 vintage opens with vibrant aromas of lemon zest, green apple, white flower, and hints of white stone fruit. On the palate, it is crisp and beautifully textured, combining bright citrus fruit with a distinctive chalky minerality and a subtle saline edge that carries through to a long, refreshing finish. Energetic acidity and impeccable balance make this both an exceptional apéritif and a versatile partner for Hors d'oeuvres.

Pairing: Oysters, shellfish, grilled halibut, fresh goat cheese, and seasonal vegetables.