Roux Pere & Fils,“Champtirant”, Saint Aubin AOP

Winery Background and History

Established in 1885, Domaine Roux Père & Fils is a family-owned estate located in the heart of the village of Saint-Aubin in the Côte d’Or region of Burgundy, France. Over five generations, the Roux family has expanded their holdings to encompass over 70 hectares of vineyards across 13 villages, making them one of the most significant family-owned domaines in Burgundy. Their vineyards span prestigious appellations, including Montrachet, Corton-Charlemagne, and Meursault. The estate is renowned for its commitment to traditional Burgundian winemaking techniques, emphasizing minimal intervention and a deep respect for the terroir. This dedication ensures that each wine reflects the unique characteristics of its origin.

Producer and Winemaker

Currently, the estate is managed by the fourth and fifth generations of the Roux family, with Sébastien and Matthieu Roux playing pivotal roles. Sébastien oversees the vineyards, implementing sustainable viticulture practices to maintain the health and vitality of the soils. Matthieu leads the winemaking process, combining traditional methods with modern innovations to craft wines that express the purity of the fruit and the distinctiveness of each vineyard site. Their collaborative approach ensures the production of high-quality wines that honor the family’s legacy while embracing contemporary advancements.

Vineyards and Microclimate

The “Champtirant” vineyard is situated in the Saint-Aubin appellation, nestled between the renowned villages of Chassagne-Montrachet and Puligny-Montrachet. Positioned on southeast-facing slopes at an elevation of approximately 320 meters, the vineyard benefits from optimal sun exposure, promoting the full ripening of the grapes. The soil composition is predominantly limestone and clay, interspersed with rocky outcrops, which provides excellent drainage and imparts a distinct minerality to the wines. The microclimate of Saint-Aubin is characterized by cool temperatures, especially at higher elevations, which contribute to the preservation of acidity and the development of complex aromatics in the grapes. These conditions are ideal for cultivating Chardonnay, allowing for the production of wines with both richness and finesse.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

100% Chardonnay

Vinification & Aging Methods

The grapes for the “Champtirant” cuvée are hand-harvested to ensure optimal ripeness and to maintain the integrity of the fruit. Upon arrival at the winery, the grapes undergo a gentle pneumatic pressing to extract the juice without imparting bitterness from the skins. The must is then settled to clarify before fermentation. Fermentation occurs in oak barrels, a portion of which are new, allowing for the integration of subtle oak nuances. The wine undergoes both alcoholic and malolactic fermentation, contributing to its richness and complexity. Following fermentation, the wine is aged on its fine lees for approximately 12 months, with regular bâtonnage (lees stirring) to enhance mouthfeel and develop additional layers of flavor. Prior to bottling, the wine is lightly fined and filtered to ensure clarity and stability.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

13%

Tasting Notes

The “Champtirant” Saint-Aubin offers a bright and fresh nose with notes of lemon, green apple, and a hint of minerality. On the palate, it is medium-bodied with a crisp acidity, showcasing flavors of citrus, white peach, and a touch of oak. The finish is clean and refreshing, with lingering notes of stone fruit and a subtle minerality.

Food & Wine Pairing

This Chardonnay pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Its bright acidity and mineral notes complement seafood such as oysters, grilled fish, and shrimp. It also pairs well with poultry dishes, creamy sauces, and soft cheeses like goat cheese. The wine’s freshness and complexity make it a versatile companion to many cuisines.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate its aromatic complexity and crispness, serve the “Champtirant” Saint-Aubin well-chilled at around 10-12°C (50-54°F) in medium-sized white wine glasses. This temperature accentuates the wine’s freshness and allows its nuanced aromas to shine. It’s recommended to open the bottle shortly before serving to preserve its delicate aromatics.

Storage and Aging Potential

While this Saint-Aubin is enjoyable upon release, displaying vibrant fruit flavors and crisp acidity, it also has the potential to develop additional complexity with cellaring. When stored properly in a cool, dark environment with stable temperatures, it can be enjoyed over the next 5 to 7 years, during which it may develop richer textures and more pronounced mineral characteristics.