The 2017 Vougeot 1er Cru Le Clos Blanc de Vougeot from Domaine de la Vougeraie is a rare and historic white Burgundy, produced as a monopole from a mythical 3.05-hectare plot of old vines (some nearly 60 years old) located mid-slope adjacent to the Château du Clos de Vougeot. Planted by the monks of Cîteaux Abbey in 1110 for sacramental wine, this “island of Chardonnay in an ocean of Pinot Noir” yields a precise, elegant wine with notes of orchard fruit, floral aromas, subtle oak, and a saline, sapid minerality. It exhibits a creamy texture, fine grain, and remarkable balance, reflecting biodynamic farming on white clay-limestone soils. Aged 18 months in oak (30% new), it is certified organic and embodies the domaine’s focus on purity and terroir expression.
Food Pairings
This Chardonnay pairs beautifully with seafood and lighter dishes, including oysters, shellfish, and crustaceans; grilled or sauced fish; white meats; foie gras or pan-fried foie gras; terrines; blue-veined cheeses, soft cheeses, hard cheeses, and goat cheeses; as well as fruit-based desserts (citrus, pear), chocolate, or coffee-infused treats. Its mineral drive and acidity make it versatile for noble fish like sole, sea bass, or cod.
Critics’ Reviews:
- Community Average (CellarTracker, 30 reviews) : 93.2/100 – Highly praised for balance, minerality, and aging potential; community notes highlight its taut structure and aromatic evolution.
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La Revue du Vin de France (RVF) – 7/20 (94/100 equivalent) – Saline, sapid, with a particular and fine grain; refined, elongated, it is complete.”
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Wine & Spirits: 94/100 – From two parcels north of Clos de Vougeot; notes of orchard fruit and petrichor, Puligny-like style with fine acidity.
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Berry Bros. & Rudd: Not scored (highly recommended) – One of the most intriguing white wines in Burgundy… taut in youth but extraordinarily aromatic with age; creamy texture with tropical and stone fruit notes.”
Drink Window
2020–2025. This vintage is approaching its peak but remains taut and structured, with potential for further evolution into more aromatic complexity if held slightly longer; drink now for freshness or cellar briefly for added depth.
