Domaine Goisot Gondonne AOC 2021

In their words -  Originating from Burgundy (Yonne – Grand Auxerrois vineyards) , this Bourgogne Côtes d'Auxerre “Gondonne” falls under the Bourgogne Côtes d'Auxerre AOC (a recognized regional appellation) . It comes from the Gondonne vineyard and is made from Chardonnay grapes . The vines, ranging from 10 to over 70 years old (representing three generations of planting), grow in Middle and Upper Kimmeridgian soils , composed of white and blue limestone and marl rich in fossilized oysters (Exogyra Virgula) . These deep limestone deposits easily crumble and contribute to the wine's character.

The vineyards are situated at altitudes ranging from 235 to 193 meters , with a northern exposure under a microclimate , facing south , in the heart of a wind zone where northeast and southwest winds clash . The vineyards are managed organically and biodynamically , certified by ECOCERT sas and Demeter , with an average yield of 45 hl/ha . The harvest, hand-sorted and fully destemmed , undergoes slow pressing and rigorous settling . Fermentation with indigenous yeasts and spontaneous malolactic fermentation are followed by aging on fine lees in barrels (approximately 20% new and some barrels that have held one to four wines ) for 15 to 19 months , without bâtonnage (lees stirring), with very limited use of SO₂ , adjusted only if necessary at bottling.

Critics thoughts - "The 2021 Bourgogne Côtes d'Auxerre Gondonne Blanc has a clean and pure lime and green apple scented bouquet with hints of apricot and wild peach percolating through with time. The palate is well balanced with a fine bead of acidity, fresh and tensile … give this 12-18 month in bottle." Neil Martin Vinous