From: Haute-Côtes de Beaune, Burgundy, France
Varietal: Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc
Taste: Upon tasting, the wine immediately unfolds with a bouquet of vibrant orchard fruits, where cosmic apple and Asian pear notes take center stage under a halo of white flowers, complemented by a refreshing citrus zest and a hint of subtle crushed herbs that add a layer of complexity and freshness. These aromas follow to the palate, where this gorgeous Hautes-Côtes de Beaune Blanc reveals a textured depth and richness yet remains impeccably balanced thanks to its bright acidity. This acidity propels the orchard fruit (predominantly Asian pear notes) and citrus flavors to the forefront, while an elegant mineral undertone provides a chiseled, lingering, refreshing, and sophisticated finish.
Pairing: The wine's acidity and rich body make it an ideal match for seafood, particularly shellfish like scallops or oysters, where its citrus zest notes will complement the briny flavors. Grilled or fried white fish could also benefit from the wine's vibrant acidity, cutting through the dish's richness while supporting its delicate flavors. For those who prefer poultry, a simple roasted chicken seasoned with herbs or a turkey salad with fresh greens and a citrusy dressing would echo the wine's balance of richness and acidity. The wine's silky touch of white flowers suggests a pairing with lightly spiced Asian dishes, such as Thai coconut curry or Vietnamese spring rolls, where the aromatic profile matches the fragrant spices of the cuisine (please, don’t make it spicy). Additionally, the blend’s body and weight make it capable of standing up to richer vegetarian dishes, such as a creamy risotto or a quiche filled with seasonal vegetables, where the wine's orchard fruit flavors can shine against the creamy textures.
Coconut Chicken Curry
Recipe from Desmond Tan and Kate Leahy
Adapted by Genevieve Ko
About. The story of Domaine Philippe et Arnaud Dubreuil begins with the vision of Paul Dubreuil in the late 1940s. It was a post-war era filled with hope and the promise of new beginnings, and for Paul, this meant laying the foundations of a winemaking legacy that would span generations. Through dedication and a passion for the vine, the initial estate steadily grew, marking the beginning of a journey that was to become synonymous with quality winemaking in the region.
In 1973, Philippe Dubreuil, one of Paul’s sons, established himself in the center of the village, bringing together two separate estates under one vision in 1989 following the unexpected passing of Paul Dubreuil. This pivotal moment marked a new chapter for the family and solidified the estate’s commitment to excellence in viticulture and winemaking.
As the years turned, a new generation was ready to take the helm. The turn of the millennium saw the third generation stepping into roles within the family estate, but it wasn’t until 2010 that Arnaud Dubreuil officially took the reins. Under his guidance, the estate experienced thoughtful growth, expanding from 10 hectares in 2010 to 12.5 hectares. This expansion included the introduction of a Corton Blanc Grand Cru, "Les Grandes Lolières,” to the wine list, elevating the estate’s offerings to new heights.
The estate prides itself on its harvesting process, a meticulous labor of love that spans approximately 12 days. Around thirty individuals, fueled by passion and precision, handpick the grapes, carefully placing them in 25kg boxes. This method ensures that the grapes are not crushed, arriving at the vat room in pristine condition and ready for vinification.
The Hautes-Côtes de Beaune benefits from a slightly cooler climate than the vineyards on the lower slopes. This cooler climate results from the higher elevation, which can significantly influence the ripening period of the grapes. The growing season tends to be longer, with grapes ripening more slowly, which can lead to a fresher acidity and more nuanced aromatics in the wines. The cooler temperatures can also pose a risk of frost, but the vineyards' exposition and slope often mitigate this danger.
The soil in the Hautes-Côtes de Beaune is varied, with a mixture of limestone and marl interspersed with clay and chalk. This diversity in soil types contributes to the complexity of the wines produced in the region. The limestone is particularly beneficial for Chardonnay, the primary white grape varietal grown in the area, contributing to the mineral character often found in the whites from this region. Pinot Noir, the main red grape varietal, also thrives here, producing elegant wines and a bright fruit profile.
White vinification at the estate is equally precise, beginning with the immediate pressing and cooling of the grapes. Fermentation, primarily occurring in vats, is carefully monitored, and it must eventually be transferred to barrels for the final stages of fermentation and aging. This detailed process, lasting between 8 and 14 months, ensures the production of exceptional quality and character white wines.
Domaine Philippe et Arnaud Dubreuil approaches bottling and filtration with the utmost respect for the wine. The estate employs a gentle gravity filtration method to ensure the wines retain their distinct characteristics and integrity. This careful approach can sometimes result in a small halo at the bottom of the bottle – a mark of quality and minimal intervention.
Notes: The 2023 Dubreuil Hautes Côtes de Beaune Blanc is a distinctive blend that elegantly combines 80% Chardonnay and 20% Pinot Blanc, sourced from the esteemed Les Perrières lieu-dit located just above Savigny-lès-Beaune. This unique blend benefits from the mature vines aged 30 and 70 years, which contribute to the wine’s exceptional body and weight, while maintaining a lively zippy acidity that brings balance and vitality.