Pouilly-Fuisse
Pouilly-Fuisse
Amongst the village appellations of the Maconnais region of Burgundy, Pouilly-Fuisse stands head and shoulders above the rest for its reputation and the quality of its best wines, which can match those of the Cote de Beaune. An 800-hectare area of hillside vineyards, Pouilly-Fuisse is characterised by the Roche de Solutre, a 500-metre limestone outcrop that looms large over the appellation. The soils are limestone-rich clays on a granite base, which provide optimum conditions for growing high-quality Chardonnay grapes. Villages within the appellation can add the name of a specific vineyard to their labels, and there is no Premier Cru system, so quality comes down to vineyards and producers. The quality-value ratio is high here, and wines are full-bodied with elegant concentration and flavours of almonds, hazelnuts, citrus and tropical fruit. Brioche and honeyed notes can also develop and wines have an opulent texture and richness. Top tip – don't confuse with Pouilly-Fume wines from the Loire - which are entirely different!
