# Saint-Véran "Les Cras" (2020)

- **Producer:** Vignerons des Terres Secrètes
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Chardonnay
- **Region:** Burgundy, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.5%
- **Average price:** €22
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 10–12 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** apple, pear, peach, lemon, grapefruit, blossom, butter, cream, toast, vanilla, hazelnut, honey

## About this wine

Vignerons des Terres Secrètes is a highly respected cooperative winery located in the Mâconnais region of southern Burgundy. Established by local winegrowing families, the cooperative is deeply committed to sustainable viticulture and was the first in Burgundy to achieve the 'Vignerons Engagés' certification. The 'Les Cras' climat is renowned for its steep, south-west facing slopes and distinctively stony, limestone-rich soils, which impart a signature mineral character to the Chardonnay grapes grown here.

## Interesting facts

- The name 'Les Cras' refers to the stony, chalky limestone soils characteristic of this specific vineyard site.
- Vignerons des Terres Secrètes was the pioneer in Burgundy for obtaining the sustainable 'Vignerons Engagés' label.
- Saint-Véran AOC forms a belt around the famous Pouilly-Fuissé appellation, sharing a very similar high-quality terroir.

## Food pairing

The vibrant acidity and medium-to-full body of this Saint-Véran cut through rich, creamy sauces and complement delicate seafood or poultry. The subtle mineral and oak notes harmonize beautifully with earthy mushrooms and herbal elements like tarragon or fennel.

## Wine making process

The Chardonnay grapes for 'Les Cras' are harvested at optimal ripeness and gently pressed using pneumatic presses to preserve the purity of the fruit. Fermentation takes place under temperature-controlled conditions. To build complexity and texture, a portion of the wine is aged in French oak barrels, while the remainder is aged in stainless steel vats. The wine undergoes full malolactic fermentation and is aged on its fine lees before blending and bottling.