2022 Domaine Theulot Juillot Mercurey 1er Cru Les Saumonts Blanc, Burgundy

Theulot Juillot’s is one of the rare whites from Les Saumonts, which abuts Les Puillets but is exposed a little more to the south. This 1er Cru is surrounded by forest and occupies a high position on the hillside (between 300 and 325 meters above sea level) that dominates the northwestern part of the village. The reddish clay-limestone soils on the steep hill below the hilltop (sous-mont) are dotted with small fossils; here is a white from a red terroir. The mass selection vines were planted in 1998, and Nathalie Theulot raised this wine in one-third new oak barrels.

There’s more body here (than in the Les Champs Martin) and a similar tight weave of texture and linear freshness. There’s a wonderful interplay of layered, fleshy texture—with notes of citrus peel, stone fruits and brown spices—salty freshness and mouthwatering acidity.

The Domaine Theulot Juillot Mercurey 1er Cru Les Saumonts Blanc from Burgundy is a refined Chardonnay that highlights the elegance and richness of the Mercurey appellation in the Côte Chalonnaise. Domaine Theulot Juillot, a family-owned estate with deep roots in the region, is celebrated for producing terroir-driven wines that reflect the unique characteristics of each vineyard.

The Les Saumonts vineyard, classified as Premier Cru, is situated on limestone-rich soils that impart a distinct minerality and complexity to the wine. The grapes are carefully hand-harvested and fermented using traditional Burgundian methods, ensuring the purity and vibrancy of the fruit. Aging in French oak barrels, with a balanced proportion of new oak, enhances the wine’s texture and aromatic depth.

In the glass, the wine displays a pale golden color with green highlights. The nose is expressive and layered, offering aromas of white peach, citrus, and apple, complemented by hints of almond, vanilla, and a subtle flinty minerality.

On the palate, the Mercurey 1er Cru Les Saumonts Blanc is medium-bodied and elegant, with flavors of ripe stone fruits, lemon curd, and a touch of toasted brioche. A lively acidity and a mineral backbone provide structure and balance, leading to a long, clean finish with lingering notes of citrus and hazelnut.

This Premier Cru Chardonnay pairs beautifully with dishes such as roast chicken, creamy seafood pastas, or goat cheese tarts. It is delightful in its youth but has the potential to age gracefully over 5-8 years, gaining additional complexity and nuance.