From: Tonnerre, Burgundy, France
Varietal: Chardonnay
Tasting Notes: This wine presents an enticing bouquet of exotic fruit salad and ripe pineapple, delicately accented by citrus zest and a subtle hint of vanilla. Floral notes of cuckoo flowers emerge alongside light woody undertones and a whisper of white chocolate. It is rich and delicious on the palate, with a supple texture that remains refreshingly light, never heavy. From the revered Kimmeridgian clay-limestone soil, a piercing minerality perfectly balances the bright, fresh fruit flavors. The saline finish adds an extra layer of complexity.
Pairing: Seafood and light poultry are easy go-to’s with this wine. Seared scallops, poached sea bass, poisson en papillote, fried fish and chips or fish tacos, grilled prawns or clams served with risotto or pasta (check out the recipe below), herb-roasted chicken or turkey served as sandwiches or over potatoes are a few examples of fantastic wine pairings. Of course, if you can find any cheese from Tonnerre, you’ll be in great shape, and if not, go for semi-soft cheeses with herbaceous or subtle honeyed and spiced flavors (cow or goats milk).
Spaghetti With Clams
By Nigella Lawson
About. Many thanks to importer, Becky Wasserman & Co. for their detailed historic profile of Domaine Dominique Gruhier and Epineuil.
In Brief: Dominique Gruhier has had a rough ride. Yet he is one of the warmest, most charming, welcoming, well-mannered, and smiling men we know. As his domaine and his (currently) obscure appellation attract customers, he has been able to make the investments and changes that were necessary to let his talent shine. What beautiful wines have emerged! Fine, sexy, juicy, vivacious, saline and chalky.
