Domaine Potinet-Ampeau Bourgogne Aligote 2021

Drink it now or cellar for up to 10 years. No need to decant, but best to open it an hour before service. Domaine Potinet-Ampeau is a family-run Burgundian winery currently managed by Vincent Durrieu and located in Monthelie. The estate covers approximately 10 hectares of land with plots spread across some of the most prestigious appellations of the Côte de Beaune, such as Monthélie, Meursault, Puligny, Pommard, Volnay, and Auxey-Duresses. The most distinctive feature of this winery is its long aging process. In keeping with traditional family practices dating back to the 50’s, the wines are often aged in tanks or barrels for several years before bottling. The Aligotè grapes, a typical Burgundy grape that has reasserted itself in recent years as a less expensive alternative to Chardonnay, come from the estate's vineyards. After vinification, the wine ages first in wood and then in the bottle. In the glass, the wine reveals an intense, dark golden color with lemon yellow highlights. Its aromatic profile is broad and fragrant, with notes of melon, Golden Delicious apple, and citrus zest, followed by white flowers and nuts. On the palate, it is smooth and round, with an oily texture and balanced acidity. It is fresh and lively, with a tart aftertaste reminiscent of lemon curd. The finish is medium-long and vaguely bitter. It makes an excellent aperitif on its own, but also pairs deliciously with seafood paella or vegetable and fish tempura.