# Vignoble Guillaume Chardonnay (2020)

- **Producer:** Vignoble Guillaume
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Chardonnay
- **Region:** Franche-Comté, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Average price:** €15
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Aromas & flavours:** peach, apricot, lemon, grapefruit, apple, brioche, vanilla, butter

## About this wine

The Vignoble Guillaume Chardonnay 2020 is an expression from the IGP Franche-Comté, a region in eastern France known for its unique terroir. The wine is produced by Vignoble Guillaume, a historic family estate founded in 1732. Uniquely, the estate also operates as a major vine nursery, supplying grapevines across Europe. This dual expertise informs their winemaking philosophy, focusing on classic French styles. The Franche-Comté region, situated between Burgundy and the Jura, features clay, marl, and limestone soils, providing a foundation for wines that reflect their origin. The 2020 vintage represents a continuation of this long-standing family tradition.

## Interesting facts

- The Guillaume family has been in winemaking and vine cultivation since 1732.
- Vignoble Guillaume is one of France's largest vine nurseries.
- The estate's vineyards share similar limestone-marl soils with Burgundy.
- Franche-Comté is a region with a rich, albeit less globally recognized, wine history.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium body and balanced acidity make it versatile. Its potential subtle buttery notes and fruit profile complement creamy sauces and seafood, while its freshness cuts through richer dishes. Pairings with chicken and lighter meats are enhanced by the wine's ability to harmonize with herbs and subtle spices.

## Wine making process

The Vignoble Guillaume Chardonnay 2020 is produced using grapes from vineyards managed with organic farming practices. While specific vinification details for this vintage are not fully disclosed, the producer's 'Classiques' line typically involves fermentation in stainless steel tanks for approximately 11 months. This method is employed to maintain the wine's freshness and primary fruit characteristics. Some other cuvées from the estate may involve partial fermentation in older barrels, but the standard Chardonnay is generally focused on preserving varietal purity and regional expression.