Experience the refined elegance of Olivier Leflaive Auxey-Duresses, a hallmark of Burgundy winemaking expertise. Crafted exclusively from 100% Chardonnay, this wine boasts a sustainable production process and meticulous vinification, including fermentation in oak barrels and aging for 12 months, ensuring a harmonious balance of flavors. On the palate, expect a full, silky texture complemented by vibrant notes of green tea, pomelo citrus, and a touch of vegetal nuances, making it an ideal pairing for dishes like bacon and mushroom salads, chicken gnocchi, or Ossau-Iraty cheese. Perfectly served at 10-12¬∞C, this Auxey-Duresses represents a tasteful journey from the heart of C√¥te de Beaune, offering an authentic expression of its limestone-rich terroir. Sophistication meets sustainability in every glass—an exceptional choice for wine enthusiasts.
Process & Profile
Olivier Leflaive Auxey-Duresses is a classic expression of Burgundy's winemaking mastery. Crafted entirely from 100% Chardonnay sourced from vineyards near Meursault, this wine reflects its terroir with calcareous clay and limestone soils. Utilizing sustainable wine-growing practices, the manually harvested grapes undergo meticulous vinification. The process includes 24 hours of static settling and both alcoholic and malolactic fermentations in oak barrels, with 10 months aging—four of which are in stainless steel tanks. A subtle touch of 14% new oak enhances its complexity while maintaining authenticity. With an alcohol content of 13%, this wine is as structured as it is refined.
Tasting Notes
Olivier Leflaive Auxey-Duresses offers a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. Its bouquet is characterized by inviting aromas of hazelnut, dried fruits, and hints of fresh almond and apple. On the palate, the wine reveals a graceful complexity with a creamy, subtly oily texture, complemented by biscuit notes and a mineral backbone. The finish is round, harmonious, and persistent, leaving a soft, refined impression.
What Makes It Special
This wine stands out for its ability to blend elegance and depth seamlessly. The influence of aging on lees adds layers of complexity, while the restrained use of oak ensures the wine remains true to its Chardonnay roots. The Auxey-Duresses appellation, known as a hidden gem in Burgundy, contributes its unique terroir, balancing richness with freshness. This 2023 vintage, from one of the hottest years on record, also offers a snapshot of winemaking resilience and precision despite challenging climatic conditions, making it a vintage to remember.
How to Enjoy
For the ultimate experience, serve Olivier Leflaive Auxey-Duresses at a temperature between 10-12°C. It pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes, from bacon and mushroom salads to chicken gnocchi or a nutty, aged sheep's cheese such as Ossau-Iraty. The wine's versatile profile also makes it an excellent pairing for prawns or fish dishes prepared with rich sauces. Drink now or cellar until 2030 to let its complexity evolve further.
Olivier Leflaive Auxey-Duresses promises not just a glass of wine but an ode to the artistry of Burgundy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of wine is Olivier Leflaive Auxey-Duresses?
Olivier Leflaive Auxey-Duresses is a white wine made exclusively from Chardonnay grapes. It is known for its elegance and complexity, with notes of green tea, pomelo citrus, and vegetal nuances, complemented by a silky texture.
What food pairs best with Olivier Leflaive Auxey-Duresses?
This wine pairs beautifully with dishes like bacon and mushroom salad, chicken gnocchi, or Ossau-Iraty cheese. These pairings enhance its fresh and textured qualities.
How should Olivier Leflaive Auxey-Duresses be served?
Serve this wine chilled at a temperature between 10°C and 12°C (50°F to 54°F) to best appreciate its flavors and aromas.
What is the aging potential of Olivier Leflaive Auxey-Duresses?
The ideal drinking window for Olivier Leflaive Auxey-Duresses is between 2024 and 2029, depending on proper storage conditions.
What is the winemaking process for Olivier Leflaive Auxey-Duresses?
The wine undergoes alcoholic and malolactic fermentation in oak barrels, followed by 12 months of aging (4 of which are in stainless steel tanks) with approximately 14% new oak. This process enhances its structure and complexity while maintaining balance.
Where is the vineyard situated for Olivier Leflaive Auxey-Duresses?
The grapes for Auxey-Duresses are sourced from vineyards near Meursault in Burgundy, France. The terroir features calcareous clay and limestone soils, which contribute to the wine's distinct minerality and freshness.
Is Olivier Leflaive Auxey-Duresses produced sustainably?
Yes, the wine is made using sustainable winegrowing practices, ensuring respect for the environment while maintaining high-quality production standards.
What makes Olivier Leflaive wines distinctive?
Olivier Leflaive wines are celebrated for their attention to terroir and traditional winemaking methods. The balance of tradition, sustainable practices, and modern expertise results in wines of elegance and authenticity, expressing the unique character of Burgundy.