Vineyards and winemaking
Au Clos is a recognised Premier Cru climat in the heart of Solutré-Pouilly. Its clay-limestone soils and sheltered position give Chardonnay notable concentration, while the underlying limestone supplies the mineral tension needed to balance that natural richness.
The hand-harvested grapes are pressed pneumatically and the juice settles naturally for around twelve hours before fermentation. Stainless steel preserves precision while a portion of barrel fermentation adds depth; full malolactic fermentation and approximately nine months in oak casks complete the élevage.
Tasting notes
Appearance
Brilliant gold with a youthful sheen and good depth of colour.
Nose
White peach and lemon oil are layered with acacia honey, toasted almond and a restrained note of vanilla.
Palate
Full and finely textured, with ripe citrus and stone fruit wrapped around a firm mineral core. Almond, light toast and a touch of honey broaden the mid-palate, while fresh acidity draws the wine into a long, poised finish.
Food pairing
Its depth calls for roast turbot with brown shrimp, seared scallops and cauliflower purée, veal blanquette, or a truffled cauliflower gratin. Serve at 11–13°C in a generous glass rather than over-chilling it.
Background story
Domaine de Pouilly is based in Solutré-Pouilly at the heart of the Mâconnais. Brothers Vincent and Pierre-Antoine Besson represent the family's fifth generation of winegrowers, following a line that began with their grandfather Pétrus in 1933.
Au Clos demonstrates the extra dimension that a named Premier Cru can bring to Pouilly-Fuissé. This 2023 has the depth, flavour and panache to drink beautifully now, yet its fruit, acidity and measured oak suggest rewarding development in a well-kept cellar.
