The 2011 Pouilly-Fuisse comes from several tiny plots around Chaintre with just a 2 to 3% smattering of oak. It has an elegant bouquet, quite floral with hints of orange blossom and apricot that is well-defined and very floral. The palate is well-balanced with an uncomplicated citrus entry. It boasts a crisp, almost racy line of acidity but it just tapers away a little toward the finish. I would be intrigued to taste other vintages.
Located just outside the village of Chaintre is the small domaine of Dominique Cornin, one of several Cornins in this locale. They sold their crop to the co-operative up until 1993. Everything here is estate grown, the vines certified organic and the wines matured in stainless steel (for the Macon) and in demi-muids, which Romain Cornin informed me is the preferred vessel. This was my last visit of the week and I wished that I did not have to run and catch my flight home, for these were very succinct, traditional, terroir-driven wines that prioritize finesse over power or richness. “Less is more” might be the mantra here.
Importer: Martine’s Wines, Novato, CA; tel. (415) 883-0400