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

The Affordable Alternative to Chablis

An extremely refreshing wine, infused with minerality but also with fresh salted butter tones and candied lemons. Although located in the far north of Burgundy, between Auxerre and Chablis, this white wine from Chalmeau stands out above most of its counterparts. An excellent finish completes the experience. Comparable to Chablis, this is a mineral thirst-quencher. The bouquet combines hawthorn and honeysuckle flowers, bergamot, and citrus aromas. The proximity to the Chablis terroir gives it a minerality that harmonizes with the aromatic richness of this 2022 vintage.

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

In the picturesque landscape of Burgundy lies the hidden gem of Chitry. A region that may not be as well-known as its famous neighbors, but certainly has its own story to tell. Here, between 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 more expensive wines from the Chablis region.

Wine and Food Pairing

Perfectly suited for aperitif moments, but also an excellent companion to fish dishes and oysters. Treat this wine as you would with Chablis.

Key Characteristics

Domaine Edmond Chalmeau

Located in the picturesque village of Chitry in Burgundy, this hidden gem is beginning to be discovered by wine lovers around the world. This family-run estate, passed down through generations, is known for its dedication to traditional winemaking methods and producing wines that beautifully express the terroir of Chitry. Chitry is located in the Côte Auxerrois region, not far from Chablis, and shares many of the characteristics that have made Chablis so famous. The wines from Domaine E. Chalmeau, particularly their Chardonnays, are rich in minerality and freshness, with a distinct character that reflects the limestone soils of the region. The wines have a pure, elegant style with vibrant acidity and subtle fruity notes, making them perfect for pairing with a variety of dishes.

Côte Auxerrois: Hidden Gem of Burgundy

The Côte Auxerrois, located northwest of Burgundy’s famous wine regions, is often overlooked by lovers of Burgundy wines. However, this region, around the city of Auxerre, is increasingly gaining attention for its excellent price-quality ratio. While the more well-known Burgundy wines often come with high prices, the Côte Auxerrois offers wines of surprisingly high quality with an authentic character, without the exorbitant costs. For those who really want to discover Burgundy, the Côte Auxerrois is full of pleasant surprises.

What is produced in the Côte Auxerrois?

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

Which Dishes Pair Well with Côte Auxerrois Wines?

The white Chardonnay and Aligoté wines from the Côte Auxerrois are perfectly suited to a wide range of dishes. They pair well with shellfish and seafood such as oysters, mussels, and shrimp, as well as light fish dishes with fresh lemon or herb butter sauces. These wines are also a good 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 an excellent choice with poultry, light meats such as veal, and lighter stews. They are perfect for dishes with earthy flavors, such as mushrooms and roasted vegetables. For vegetarians, they pair well with dishes containing lentils, carrots, and beets, or with a creamy risotto. Both wine types are versatile and pair well with main courses as well as soft cheeses during dessert.

Buying Côte Auxerrois Burgundy Wines

At Burgundy or Nowhere, you’ll find a carefully curated 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 highly recommended for those looking for a rich yet elegant red wine. Our goal is to offer wines that are well worth their price, with the quality in the bottle taking center stage, not just the name on the label.