# Perle de Vigne (1877)

- **Producer:** Louis Bouillot
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** sparkling
- **Grapes:** Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Aligoté, Gamay
- **Region:** Burgundy, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.0%
- **Average price:** €20
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 6–8 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** pear, lemon, peach, red cherry, apple, pastry, biscuit, brioche

## About this wine

Perle de Vigne is the emblematic cuvée from Louis Bouillot, a producer with a winemaking legacy dating back to 1877. Located in Burgundy, France, the estate specializes in Crémant de Bourgogne, a sparkling wine appellation. Perle de Vigne is notable for its blend of four indigenous Burgundy grape varieties: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Aligoté, and Gamay. This blend aims to capture the essence of the Burgundy terroir. The wine is characterized by its freshness, achieved through a relatively short aging period before release, making it suitable for a wide range of occasions.

## Interesting facts

- Louis Bouillot is responsible for one in four bottles of Crémant de Bourgogne sold worldwide.
- The wine's name, 'Pearl of the Vine,' evokes the precious quality of the grapes.
- It's a blend of four key Burgundy grapes: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Aligoté, and Gamay.

## Food pairing

The wine's crisp acidity and medium body make it a versatile companion. Its invigorating nature cuts through richer elements like butter and cream, while its subtle fruit notes complement seafood and poultry without overpowering them. It also serves as a refreshing counterpoint to salty charcuterie.

## Wine making process

Louis Bouillot employs the traditional method for producing Perle de Vigne, a Crémant de Bourgogne. The grapes, a blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Aligoté, and Gamay, are hand-picked. Primary fermentation occurs in stainless steel tanks to retain freshness. Following this, the wine undergoes secondary fermentation and aging on lees in the bottle for a minimum of 12 months. This process is designed to develop the wine's effervescence and a degree of complexity while preserving its youthful character. The winery also emphasizes sustainable growing practices and the protection of its vineyard terroirs.