Recognised in 1998 and receiving the official new appellation a year later, Viré-Clessé is the first communal appellation from the remarkable terroirs within the wider AOC Macon-Villages. Viré and Clessé are two villages situated in Southern Burgundy between Tournus and Macon. With the style of their wines being so similar, a single appellation was chosen. It covers 406,65 ha.
The appellation is situated on two slopes, running North-South, with valleys between, which are composed of limestone (Bajocian) and marl-limestone strata from the Oxfordian era (Jurassic). Other soils on the low slopes are clay with "chailles"- sandstone pebbles - well-drained land facing East. The "Cray", a Maconnais chalky soil with white stone is found here - the best soil for Chardonnay. Altitude - between 200 m and 400 m.
100% Chardonnay
COLOR: Clear and shiny pale gold.
NOSE: Very fruity, with citrus and white fleshed fruits notes. It also displays fresh aromas of mint and fern.
PALATE: Fresh and lively in the mouth, with a round finish. It is a sound and supple wine at the same time.
The grapes are gently pressed to extract the highest quality juice possible. The resulting must is placed in a temperature-controlled vat for settling (12 to 24 hours). This settling operation is crucial in our quest for aromatic purity. The must is then racked and placed in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats (16-18°C) for alcoholic fermentation. Ageing in stainless steel vats on lees (80%) and in oak barrels (20%) for 8 to 10 months.
Perfect with poultry, crustaceans, sauted vegetables, goat cheeses and Camembert.
11 to 13°C
Can be enjoyed in its youth for its fruitiness. More complex aromas and flavours such as quince jam will develop with time. It will be able to age for 5 to 8 years.