Antonin Rodet Chat, de Rully Rully 1er La Pucelle 2020
Country/Region of Origin: France

Grape variety: 100% Chardonnay

Background: Antonin Rodet is the exclusive winegrower and distributor of this ancient fortified Chateau dating back to the 12th Century has remained the property of the same family since its origins and today is the symbol of the village of Rully. The origin of "La Pucelle" comes from the way the land was divided in the family: the youngest daughter (a virgin in comparison with her elder sisters) was also given a plot as an inheritance. The vineyard estate covers nowadays over 12 hectares, producing about 60% of Premiers Crus.

Vinification and maturing: The plot was harvested on September 2020, the 3rd. Grapes were hand harvested, carefully sorted and put into boxes, to avoid bruising or crushing. Once at the winery, the grapes went in a bladder press where they were squeezed from the inside to get the best quality of juice with a minimal exposure to oxygen. Then, the must was left to settle for 24 hours to clarify before starting fermentation. Vinification took place for a part in stainless steel tanks. Once the alcoholic fermentation was achieved, the wine was casked for a 9-month ageing period in oak barrels on thin lees. Stirring was occasional (twice a month) until the beginning of the malolactic fermentation. It prevented the wine from oxidising and helped develop its complexity. To complete the ageing process, we used a proportion of 25% new barrels to give more structure to the wine and bring more roundness.

Tasting notes: The colour is golden yellow. Aromas of citrus and exotic fruits (pineapple) carried by elegant woody notes. In the mouth, a mineral attack on citrus and exotic fruits, mostly pineapple again. An ample yet lively wine perfectly expressing the parcel terroir with a beautiful length on citrus aromas.

Food pairing: Enjoy with cold cuts, hot first courses, seafood, shellfish, fine fish or white meats in light sauces, fine cheeses, poultry in sauce.