Saint-Aubin 1er Cru Les Combes 2020 – Domaine Philippe Colin

The Saint-Aubin 1er Cru Les Combes 2020 from Domaine Philippe Colin is a distinguished expression of Chardonnay from one of Burgundy’s most intriguing and ascending appellations. Nestled in the rolling hills of the Côte de Beaune, Saint-Aubin is a village that has garnered much attention for producing wines of exceptional quality and value, and Les Combes is a premier cru vineyard that exemplifies the unique terroir of the region. Philippe Colin, a vintner with deep roots and a profound understanding of the intricacies of Burgundy’s landscape, crafts this wine with meticulous care, ensuring a perfect balance between tradition and modern winemaking techniques.

The 2020 vintage was marked by a growing season that tested the skill and adaptability of winemakers, with Domaine Philippe Colin rising to the challenge to produce a wine of remarkable elegance and complexity. The Chardonnay grapes for Les Combes are hand-harvested from vines deeply rooted in limestone and clay soils, which contribute to the wine’s notable minerality and vibrant acidity. After harvesting, the grapes undergo a careful vinification process, including fermentation in oak barrels, which adds subtle hints of toast and spice to the wine’s natural bouquet of aromas without overshadowing the purity of the fruit.

In the glass, the Saint-Aubin 1er Cru Les Combes 2020 presents a pale gold color, with an enticing aroma of citrus fruits, green apple, and white flowers, accented by a delicate minerality and a whisper of oak. On the palate, the wine is both rich and precise, with a silky texture and a lively acidity that leads to a long, nuanced finish. The balance of fruit, minerality, and oak is a testament to the winemaker’s artistry, making this wine a superb example of what the Saint-Aubin appellation can offer.

This premier cru Chardonnay is not only a reflection of its esteemed terroir but also of the dedication to quality and expression that Domaine Philippe Colin upholds. It stands as a versatile companion to a range of dishes, from seafood to poultry, and will continue to evolve and reveal its complexity with age. The Saint-Aubin 1er Cru Les Combes 2020 is a wine that invites connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike to discover the depth and diversity of Burgundy’s lesser-known gems.