Bourgogne Chitry, Vieilles Vignes D'aimé Blanc 2022, E. Chalmeau

Buy White Burgundy Chitry Wine from Domaine Edmond Chalmeau

An exceptionally refreshing wine, filled with minerality and notes of lightly salted butter and candied lemons. Although it is situated in the far north of Burgundy, between Auxerre and Chablis, this white wine from Chalmeau stands out among its peers. A superb finish completes the experience. Comparable to Chablis, it’s a mineral-driven thirst-quencher. The bouquet combines hawthorn and honeysuckle blossoms, bergamot, and citrus scents. The proximity to Chablis gives it a minerality that harmonizes with the aromatic richness of this 2022 vintage.

This cuvée, vinified in stainless steel and aged in wooden barrels, comes from 1.30 hectares of 65-year-old vines planted by the grandfather. It reveals fine aromas of candied lemons, yellow and white fruits, bergamot, and fresh butter. Juicy, full of fruit, delicious, and full of energy. Excellent aging potential!

Set in the picturesque landscape of Burgundy lies the hidden gem of Chitry. Although not as well-known as its famous neighbors, this area has its own story to tell. Here, amidst rolling hills and charming villages, the vineyards of Chitry thrive. Chitry is a destination for those seeking hidden treasures. With its characterful wines and enchanting landscapes, it offers an authentic experience comparable to the pricier wines from the Chablis region.

Food Pairing

Ideal as an aperitif but also a perfect companion for fish dishes and oysters. Treat this wine as you would a Chablis.

Special Characteristics

• 100% Chardonnay aged in a mix of steel and wooden barrels.
• Elegant style, fresh/soft, a hint of salted butter, and fresh lemons. A summery wine for lunchtime.
• Grown near the town of Auxerre. Chablis-like style but softer.
• Old vines for an extra-rich Chardonnay experience.
• Awarded Best of the Region by Proefschrift Bourgogne Aujourd'hui, issue 174.

Domaine Edmond Chalmeau

Located in the charming village of Chitry in Burgundy, this hidden gem is gaining recognition among wine lovers worldwide. This family-owned estate, run by generations, is known for its dedication to traditional winemaking methods and for producing wines that beautifully reflect the terroir of Chitry. Chitry is in the Côte Auxerrois region, not far from Chablis, and shares many characteristics that have made Chablis so famous. The wines from Domaine E. Chalmeau, particularly their Chardonnays, are mineral-rich and fresh, with a distinct character that mirrors the limestone-rich soils of the region. Their wines have a pure, elegant style with vibrant acidity and subtle fruity notes, making them perfect to pair with various dishes.

Côte Auxerrois: The Hidden Gem of Burgundy

The Côte Auxerrois, situated northwest of Burgundy’s famous wine regions, is often overlooked by Burgundy wine enthusiasts. However, this area around the city of Auxerre is increasingly gaining attention for its excellent price-to-quality ratio. While better-known Burgundy wines can command high prices, the Côte Auxerrois offers wines of surprisingly high quality with an authentic character, without the premium price tag. For those wanting to truly explore Burgundy, the Côte Auxerrois is a region full of pleasant surprises.

What is Produced in the Côte Auxerrois?

The Côte Auxerrois is known for its versatility, producing both white and red wines. The main grape varieties are Chardonnay and Aligoté for white wines, and Pinot Noir and Gamay for red wines. The region includes several appellations, such as Bourgogne Côte d’Auxerre, Saint-Bris, Coulanges la Vineuse, Chitry, and Irancy. The white wines from this area often have a fresh and mineral style, with subtle fruity notes that reflect the terroir. They are similar to wines from the neighboring Chablis region, though often slightly softer in minerality. The red wines, particularly Pinot Noir, are known for their elegant structure and lively flavors, while Gamay wines offer a lighter, fruitier style.

What Foods Pair with Côte Auxerrois Wines?

The white Chardonnay and Aligoté wines from the Côte Auxerrois pair beautifully with a range of dishes. They go well with shellfish like oysters, mussels, and shrimp, as well as light fish dishes with fresh lemon or herb butter sauces. These wines are also an excellent choice with soft cheeses and light poultry dishes with subtle herbs.

The red wines from the Côte Auxerrois, particularly the Pinot Noir and Gamay, are a great match for poultry, light meats like veal, and lighter stews. They are ideal with earthy flavors, such as mushrooms and roasted vegetables. For vegetarians, they complement dishes with lentils, carrots, and beets, or a creamy risotto. Both types of wines are versatile, pairing well with main dishes and even soft cheeses at dessert.

Buying Côte Auxerrois Burgundy Wines

At Burgundy or Nowhere, you will find a carefully selected collection of wines from the Côte Auxerrois. We are particularly impressed by the wines from Domaine Chalmeau, whose Bourgogne Chitry offers a rare and refreshing Chablis-like experience within Burgundy. The Coulanges-la-Vineuse Rouge from Domaine Houblin is also a great recommendation for those seeking a rich yet elegant red wine. Our goal is to offer wines that are worth every penny, focusing on the quality inside the bottle rather than just the name on the label.