2020 Domaine Saumaize Michelin Pouilly-Fuisse Les Ronchevats

The 2020 Domaine Saumaize-Michelin Pouilly-Fuissé Les Ronchevats is a richly textured Chardonnay from Vergisson in Burgundy’s Mâconnais. Produced by Roger and Christine Saumaize-Michelin, this single-vineyard cuvée comes from southwest-facing vines averaging around 60 years old, rooted in clay-rich soils with limestone outcrops. The domaine describes barrel fermentation, full malolactic fermentation and approximately 12 months of maturation in French oak, with lees stirring contributing breadth and texture. Les Ronchevats remains a village-level Pouilly-Fuissé, offering a generous expression of its site. The same cuvée was renamed Aux Charmes from the 2021 vintage.

Expect quince, ripe orchard fruit and honeyed notes, complemented by toast and gentle spice. The defining appeal of the 2020 is the contrast between its rounded aromatic character and a more focused, energetic palate. Neal Martin awarded it 90+ Points for Vinous in August 2022, noting a honeyed bouquet followed by saline freshness and an appealing bitter edge towards the finish. His assessment suggested that further bottle development could help the aromatics unfold. With several years of age now behind it, well-stored examples may also reveal hazelnut, beeswax and more savoury complexity alongside the remaining fruit.