Saint-Aubin Wine from Burgundy

The commune of Saint-Aubin is located in the Cote de Beaune wine-growing region of Burgundy. Known primarily for its elegant Chardonnay, St Aubin’s wines reflect the unique terroir and climate of this picturesque part of France. The vineyards are mostly located in a side valley to the west of the famous Chassagne Montrachet appellation.

The Saint-Aubin Appellation d’Origin Controllee (AOC) can be used for red and white wine. Interestingly the AOC regulations for this appellation allow for both Chardonnay and Pinot Blanc grapes to be used for white wine production, but most white wines are 100% Chardonnay. Saint-Aubin was only relatively recently granted Premier Cru status for about two-thirds of the wine produced in the village and some of the best of the 20 climats include En Remilly, Chatenière, and Les Murgers des Dents de Chien. There are no Grand Crus. Production is around 75% white wine to 25% red wine.  

Saint-Aubin benefits from a continental climate, characterized by cold winters and warm summers. This climate is crucial for the development of the grapes, as it ensures a long growing season, allowing the grapes to ripen slowly and develop complex flavours. However, the region is not without its challenges. Frost in the spring and hailstorms in the summer can pose significant risks to the vineyards, potentially reducing yield and affecting the quality of the harvest. Winemakers must navigate the challenges posed by the climate, such as mitigating the risks of frost and hail through techniques like pruning, canopy management, and the use of wind machines or frost candles.

The vineyards tend to be situated on slopes with varying exposures and altitudes, primarily composed of limestone and clay soils. These soils are well-drained and rich in minerals, contributing to the distinctive minerality and freshness of the wines. The limestone, in particular, enhances the aromatic profile of the Chardonnay, imbuing it with a delicate balance of acidity and fruitiness.

Main Grape Varieties: Chardonnay and Pinot Noir

Saint-Aubin is predominantly planted with Chardonnay, which thrives in the region’s terroir. The Chardonnay from Saint-Aubin is renowned for its elegance and complexity, often exhibiting notes of citrus, white flowers, and a subtle minerality. The wines are typically less opulent than those from neighbouring Meursault and Puligny-Montrachet, offering a more restrained and refined profile that appeals to many connoisseurs.

Pinot Noir, though less prevalent, is also grown in Saint-Aubin. The red wines from this grape variety are characterized by their bright red fruit flavours, earthy undertones, and fine tannins. While they may not be as celebrated as the Chardonnays, the Pinot Noirs from St Saint-Aubin still showcase the village’s ability to produce high-quality wines.

Other Grape Varieties: Pinot Blanc & Pinot Gris

White wines are allowed to be made from Chardonnay and Pinot Gris, though this is not common. 

Red wines are allowed to contain up to 15% “accessory grapes” including Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc and Pinot Gris.

Louis Latour Saint-Aubin Blanc 1er Cru

The vineyards that the Chardonnay grapes are sourced from are planted with vines with an average age of 30 years. The soil is limestone,  average yields are 45 hl/ha and the grapes are harvested by hand. The wine is fermented in traditional oak barrels and matured 8 to 10 months ageing in oak barrels, 10% new, from the Louis Latour cooperage, French oak, medium toasted. 100% Chardonnay.

Tasting Notes

“Bright and pale gold colour. Its nose reveals brioche and vanilla aromas. On the palate, it is round and fresh, with an almost saline finish.”