There’s something uncanny about the 2019 Vincent Girardin Pouilly-Fuisse Les Vieilles Vignes. It’s not just a wine—it’s a conversation between terroir and time, unfolding in layers that feel both immediate and elusive. This Chardonnay, sourced from biodynamically farmed vines averaging 50 years old, arrives with a nose that teeters between sharp and soft, offering citrus zest and a whisper of plastic—a detail that might unsettle, but it’s part of the wine’s enigmatic charm. Let it breathe, and it transforms, revealing crystallized vanilla and toasted brioche, as though the air itself is unlocking its secrets.
The palate is a study in restraint and precision. Medium-bodied, it balances sweetened lime and grapefruit with supple golden apple, while oak vanillins and toasted almonds add texture. What’s striking is how the wine evolves with temperature: as it approaches room temperature, the sugar-coated brioche becomes dominant, a shift that feels deliberate, almost theatrical. It’s not about complexity for its own sake but about how the wine invites you to linger, to savor its quiet confidence.
The finish lingers with modest hints of vanilla and toast, leaving a dry, reflective aftertaste that mirrors the palate. While the alcohol and minerality are minimal, the wine’s structure feels deliberate, anchored by a medium body and light acidity. It’s a rare example of a wine that doesn’t overreach—it honors its origins without trying to outshine them.
Key points: The 2019 Les Vieilles Vignes thrives on balance, blending oak and fruit without overpowering. Its evolution with air and temperature makes it a conversation starter. At around $57, it’s a steal for its depth and restraint.
Did it surprise you, or did it feel like a familiar friend.
What did you think when you first poured this wine? Did it surprise you, or did it feel like a familiar friend? Share your take in the comments.
Questions & Answers
What is the vintage of Vincent Girardin Pouilly-Fuisse Les Vieilles Vignes?
The 2019 vintage of Vincent Girardin Pouilly-Fuisse Les Vieilles Vignes is known for its balance and elegance, with bright fruit and mineral notes.
Where is Vincent Girardin Pouilly-Fuisse Les Vieilles Vignes from?
It is from the Pouilly-Fuisse appellation in the Beaujolais region of France, known for its steep slopes and limestone soils.
Information sourced from industry reports and news outlets.
