Domaine Thibert Père et Fils Pouilly-Fuissé “Vignes Blanches” 2018

Domaine Thibert Père et Fils, established in 1967, is a family-owned estate located in Fuissé, within the Mâconnais sub-region of Burgundy, France. Over the decades, the Thibert family has expanded their vineyard holdings to encompass approximately 30 hectares, focusing on sustainable viticulture and traditional winemaking techniques. The estate is renowned for producing high-quality Chardonnay wines that reflect the unique terroirs of the region. The “Vignes Blanches” vineyard, a notable parcel within their holdings, has been recognized for its exceptional quality and will be designated as a Premier Cru starting from the 2020 vintage.

Producer and Winemaker

The domaine is currently managed by siblings Christophe Thibert and Sandrine Thibert-Needham, who represent the second generation of the family. Christophe oversees the vineyards and winemaking process, while Sandrine handles administrative and commercial aspects. Together, they maintain a commitment to sustainable farming practices and minimal intervention in the cellar, aiming to produce wines that authentically express their terroir. Their dedication has elevated the estate’s reputation, making it a respected name among Burgundy wine enthusiasts.

Vineyards and Microclimate

The “Vignes Blanches” vineyard is situated on a mid-slope with a southern exposure, providing optimal sunlight for grape maturation. The soil composition is predominantly limestone, offering excellent drainage and contributing to the mineral character of the wine. The continental climate of the Mâconnais region, characterized by warm summers and cool winters, creates ideal conditions for cultivating Chardonnay. These factors combine to produce grapes with balanced acidity and concentrated flavors, resulting in wines of notable complexity and aging potential.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

• 100% Chardonnay

Vinification & Aging Methods

The winemaking process begins with manual harvesting to ensure the selection of the highest quality grapes. After gentle pressing, the must undergoes fermentation in stainless steel tanks to preserve the purity of fruit flavors. The wine is then aged on its lees for several months, enhancing its texture and complexity. This approach allows the wine to develop a harmonious balance between freshness and depth, characteristic of the Pouilly-Fuissé appellation.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

Specific ABV information for the 2018 vintage is not readily available; however, Pouilly-Fuissé wines typically range between 13% and 14% ABV.

Tasting Notes

The 2018 “Vignes Blanches” exhibits a refined bouquet of peach, orange oil, and confit citrus, complemented by subtle hints of buttered popcorn and white flowers. On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied, with a satiny texture and lively acidity. The wine offers a concentrated core of fruit, leading to a precise and mineral-driven finish. This vintage showcases the vineyard’s potential for producing elegant and expressive Chardonnay.

Food & Wine Pairing

This Chardonnay pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Seafood options like grilled scallops or seared salmon complement the wine’s minerality and acidity. Poultry dishes, such as roasted chicken with herbs or creamy pasta with mushrooms, enhance its rich texture and flavor profile. Soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert also harmonize well, offering a delightful contrast to the wine’s crispness.

Service Methods and Temperatures

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine chilled at a temperature between 10°C and 12°C (50°F to 54°F). Using medium-sized white wine glasses will allow the aromas to fully express themselves. Decanting is not necessary; however, opening the bottle 15-20 minutes before serving can help the wine breathe and enhance its aromatic profile.

Storage and Aging Potential

The 2018 “Vignes Blanches” has the potential to age gracefully over the next 5 to 7 years. When stored in optimal conditions—cool temperatures around 12°C (54°F), consistent humidity, and away from direct light—the wine can develop additional complexity, with tertiary flavors emerging over time. However, it is also approachable in its youth, offering vibrant fruit flavors and refreshing acidity.