A Deep Dive into the Terroir of Saint-Aubin 1er Cru 'En Remilly'

Introduction: Saint-Aubin 1er Cru 'En Remilly', located in the heart of Burgundy, France, is a renowned vineyard site known for producing high-quality white wines. This terroir, part of the larger Chablis appellation, possesses unique characteristics that significantly influence its viticulture and the resulting wines. In this review, we will delve into the key factors shaping the identity of Saint-Aubin 1er Cru 'En Remilly' – geology, climate, grape varieties, and food pairings.

Geology: The vineyard's geological foundation is a mix of Kimmeridgian and Oxfordian limestone soils with fossilized oyster shells and clay-limestone subsoil. The presence of these specific soil compositions provides the vines with excellent drainage and essential nutrients, which are crucial for vine growth and wine expression. Moreover, the proximity to the Serein River helps regulate the vineyard's temperatures and moisture levels, contributing further to its unique terroir.

Climate: The Saint-Aubin 1er Cru 'En Remilly' is situated in a relatively cool climate zone compared to other wine regions in Burgundy. Its northerly positioning results in a longer growing season, which is crucial for the development of Chardonnay grapes, as they need ample time to ripen fully and develop complex flavors. The vineyard benefits from a mild maritime influence that protects it from extreme temperatures, providing optimal conditions for grape maturation.

Grape Varieties: The predominant grape variety cultivated in Saint-Aubin 1er Cru 'En Remilly' is Chardonnay. This white grape variety is well-suited to the region's terroir due to its ability to adapt to cooler climates and produce wines with excellent acidity, minerality, and a rich, full-bodied texture. The grapes grown in this area typically exhibit flavors of green apple, citrus, minerals, and white flowers, making for an elegant and refined wine.

Food Pairings: The wines from Saint-Aubin 1er Cru 'En Remilly' are best enjoyed with a variety of dishes that complement their bright acidity, mineral undertones, and subtle fruit flavors. Some suggested food pairings include:

1. Seafood and Shellfish: The minerality present in the wines makes them an excellent companion to fish dishes, especially those prepared with herbs, butter, or lemon sauce. Oysters, mussels, scallops, and other shellfish are perfect matches for these elegant white wines. 2. Cheese and Charcuterie: The wine's complexity pairs well with various cheeses such as Comté, Emmental, or aged Cheddar. It also complements savory charcuterie items like prosciutto, chorizo, and salami. 3. Vegetarian Dishes: Saint-Aubin wines are an excellent choice for vegetarian dishes featuring ingredients such as asparagus, zucchini, artichokes, and mushrooms, which will highlight the wine's minerality and acidity. 4. Light Meats: The wines pair well with light meats like turkey, veal, or chicken in dishes prepared with herbs, cream, or butter sauces.

Conclusion: The Saint-Aubin 1er Cru 'En Remilly' is a unique and captivating terroir that offers wine lovers an unforgettable tasting experience. Its combination of distinct geology, cool climate, Chardonnay grape varieties, and versatile food pairings make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the world of fine wines. The wines produced from this area showcase the true essence of Burgundian winemaking, offering a balance of minerality, acidity, and complexity that is both elegant and refined.