Known for its exceptional quality and distinctive character, White Burgundy commands high prices due to several factors. Firstly, the terroir of Burgundy, with its unique combination of soil, climate, and topography, creates ideal conditions for growing Chardonnay. Secondly, Burgundy vineyards are fragmented into many small plots, often owned by different families for generations, leading to limited production and high demand for these exclusive wines. In addition, meticulous winemaking practices, including hand harvesting and traditional vinification methods, contribute to the high costs. The reputation and heritage of Burgundy wines, bolstered by centuries of winemaking tradition and critical acclaim, further drive up prices as collectors and connoisseurs seek out the prestigious bottles. The combination of terroir, small production, meticulous craftsmanship, and reputation—ensures that White Burgundy remains one of the most sought-after and expensive wines.
We attended a Joseph Colin Saint Aubin white Burgundy tasting at one of my favorite bottle shops and tasting rooms in the Bay area, Vin Vino Wine, Palo Alto. There were nine in total but we opted for a suggested five. Those we tasted exhibited various stages of their aging process. In my opinion, all of the wines require considerable aging to fully showcase their individual terroir. They are excellent wines, so buy now and hold.
The 2022 Saint-Aubin 1er Cru ‘Les Pitangerets’, previously known as Les Combes, offers aromas of peach, white flowers, and some butter. It has a medium-full body with a smooth, layered texture and finishes with a bit of minerality.
**Price: $108.00**
The 2022 Saint-Aubin 1er Cru ‘En Remilly’ is filled with aromas of pear, green apple, white flowers, and butter with a hint of sulfur. It is medium-full-bodied with a silky, lively, and saline taste.
**Price: $132.00**
The 2021 Saint-Aubin 1er Cru ‘Les Frionnes’ features floral scents mixed with mineral reduction and green apple. It has crisp, stony flavors with good concentration and a citrus-tinged finish. This wine typically improves with 5 to 7 years of aging.
**Price: $108.00**
2021 Saint-Aubin 1er Cru ‘La Chateniere,’ Joseph Colin
This wine has a subtle smoky nose with hints of citrus. It offers delightful middleweight flavors with a pleasant texture and noticeable minerality on a dry, lingering finish.
**Price: $132.00**
2020 Saint-Aubin 1er Cru ‘Sur le Sentier du Clou,’ Joseph Colin
This wine has a lightly smoky nose with notes of pear, apple compote, citrus confit, and fennel. It has intense, well-detailed medium weight flavors that are briny, dry, and refreshing. This wine is expected to gain depth with a few years of aging.
**Price: $102.00**
When in Palo Alto, make it a point to visit this Bottle Shop. It’s fantastic!
