# Sur La Roche (2024)

- **Producer:** Famille Barraud
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Chardonnay
- **Region:** Burgundy, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.5%
- **Average price:** €45
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 11–13 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** apple, pear, lemon, peach, blossom, vanilla, toast, butter, brioche, honey, almond, hazelnut

## About this wine

Famille Barraud, a revered name in the Mâconnais, crafts this 'Sur La Roche' Pouilly-Fuissé 1er Cru, a testament to their multi-generational dedication to expressing the unique terroir of southern Burgundy. The 2024 vintage hails from one of the newly classified Premier Cru vineyards, a recognition of the exceptional quality and distinct character these sites offer. Located in the heart of the Pouilly-Fuissé appellation, the 'Sur La Roche' designation likely points to a vineyard with significant rocky, limestone-rich soils, which are crucial for imparting minerality and complexity to the Chardonnay grape. Famille Barraud is known for their meticulous vineyard management and traditional winemaking, aiming to produce wines that are both elegant and powerful, reflecting the sunny yet nuanced climate of the region.

## Interesting facts

- Pouilly-Fuissé received its first Premier Cru classifications in 2020, recognizing its top terroirs.
- Famille Barraud has been producing wine in the Mâconnais for generations, deeply rooted in the region.
- Despite its name, Pouilly-Fuissé is made exclusively from Chardonnay grapes, not Sauvignon Blanc.
- The 'Sur La Roche' name often indicates a vineyard with prominent rocky, limestone soils.

## Food pairing

This Pouilly-Fuissé 1er Cru, with its medium-plus body, vibrant acidity, and potential oak influence, pairs beautifully with dishes that offer richness and texture. Its acidity cuts through creamy sauces and fatty fish, while its complexity complements earthy flavors like mushrooms and roasted poultry. The wine's structure can stand up to substantial dishes, making it versatile for elegant meals. Avoid overly spicy or highly acidic foods that would strip the wine of its nuanced character.

## Wine making process

The winemaking for Famille Barraud's 'Sur La Roche' Pouilly-Fuissé 1er Cru typically involves a careful approach to preserve the purity of the Chardonnay fruit while building complexity. Grapes are likely hand-harvested to ensure optimal ripeness and gentle handling. After a meticulous sorting, the fruit undergoes a gentle pressing. Fermentation often takes place in a combination of stainless steel and French oak barrels, with a portion of new oak used to impart subtle spice and texture without overpowering the wine's inherent fruit and minerality. Malolactic fermentation is usually encouraged to soften the acidity and add creamy notes. The wine then ages on its fine lees for an extended period, often 10-12 months or more, in barrel, enhancing its richness, complexity, and age-worthiness before bottling.