2023 Olivier Merlin Pouilly-Fuissé Clos de France Premier Cru

Pouilly-Fuissé is one of the most famous places in Burgundy where Chardonnay shines. This small yet renowned area in the Mâconnais has been known for decades for elegant wines with a fresh style and refined structure. For Burgundy lovers, Pouilly-Fuissé is always a name that sparks curiosity.

What is Pouilly-Fuissé?

Pouilly-Fuissé is an appellation in southern Burgundy, in the Mâconnais region. Here it’s all about Chardonnay. No blends, no distractions, just pure Chardonnay drawing its strength from limestone soils and rolling hillsides. The wines are known for their fresh style, often with ripe fruit notes, a hint of minerality, and sometimes a touch of oak.

The history of Pouilly-Fuissé

The history of Pouilly-Fuissé goes way back. Vines were already planted here in Roman times. Later, it was the monasteries that expanded and refined the winemaking. In 1936, Pouilly-Fuissé officially received AOC status, making it one of the first appellations in France. That gave the region both protection and international recognition. Since then, its reputation has only grown stronger.

Location and terroir

Pouilly-Fuissé is centered around four villages: Fuissé, Solutré-Pouilly, Vergisson, and Chaintré. The landscape is dramatic, with the limestone rock of Solutré rising above the vineyards as a landmark. The soil is mostly clay and limestone, perfect for Chardonnay. The hillside vineyards provide good sun exposure and ventilation, allowing grapes to ripen fully while keeping their freshness. The microclimate means the wines are often fuller than those from northern Burgundy, but always balanced with finesse.

Regulations and classification

All Pouilly-Fuissé is white and made from 100% Chardonnay. Since 2020, the appellation has also recognized Premier Cru vineyards. That’s significant, as the area had no Premier Cru status before then. Today there are 22 vineyards officially classified as Premier Cru, based on their location, soils, and reputation. Producers may only use the label if their wine truly comes from one of these recognized plots.

How is Pouilly-Fuissé made?

The grapes are usually harvested by hand, often in September. After harvest, they are gently pressed and fermented. Many producers use oak barrels, sometimes for fermentation, sometimes just for aging. The use of oak varies—some keep it subtle, others more pronounced—depending on the winemaker’s style. What all these wines share is a balance of freshness and structure. The best cuvées can age beautifully for years, developing more depth and complexity over time.

Fun facts about Pouilly-Fuissé

- The rock of Solutré was once a prehistoric hunting ground. Archaeologists found thousands of horse and animal bones there.
- Unlike Pouilly-Fumé from the Loire, this is not Sauvignon Blanc, but always Chardonnay.
- The area is relatively small: about 750 hectares, split among many small producers.
- Styles range from crisp and mineral to rich and buttery, depending on vineyard site and winemaking approach.

Order Pouilly-Fuissé online?

At Grandcruwijnen you’ll find a wide selection of Pouilly-Fuissé. All wines are stored in our conditioned Wine Warehouse, keeping them in perfect shape. Order online and choose pickup in Dordrecht for an instant discount, which you’ll see right away when selecting ‘Pickup’ during checkout.

Bourgogne is one of the most prestigious wine regions in the world, located in eastern France. It is renowned for its exceptional wines, unique vineyards, and a rich history dating back to Roman times. Particularly famous for its Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines, Bourgogne is a top destination for wine enthusiasts.

Subregions of Bourgogne

Bourgogne is situated in the central-eastern part of France and covers a relatively small area. However, due to its diverse terroirs and microclimates, it has become a hub of wine production. The region is divided into five major subregions, each with its own unique characteristics and wines.

Chablis

Chablis, located in the northernmost part of Bourgogne, is known for its pure and crisp Chardonnay wines. The unique Kimmeridgian limestone soils in this area give the wines a distinctive mineral character. Top appellations such as Chablis Grand Cru and Premier Cru, with vineyards like Les Clos and Vaillons, produce wines of exceptional quality, known for their lively acidity and minerality.

Côte de Nuits

The Côte de Nuits is renowned for its outstanding Pinot Noirs. Located in the northern part of the Côte d'Or, this area offers perfect conditions for producing some of the most sought-after red wines in the world. Prestigious appellations like Gevrey-Chambertin and Vosne-Romanée produce complex, elegant, and refined wines that age beautifully.

Côte de Beaune

The Côte de Beaune is known for both its red and white wines, but the region particularly excels in producing some of the world's best Chardonnays. Appellations such as Meursault, Puligny-Montrachet, and Chassagne-Montrachet produce rich, oak-aged white wines of exceptional quality. Pinot Noir also plays an important role here, with iconic red wines from Volnay and Pommard.

Côte Chalonnaise

The Côte Chalonnaise offers an excellent balance between quality and affordability. This area, located south of the Côte de Beaune, produces both high-quality Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Appellations like Mercurey and Givry are known for their expressive yet affordable wines.

Mâconnais

The Mâconnais, located in the southern part of Bourgogne, produces some of the region's most accessible Chardonnay wines. Wines from appellations like Pouilly-Fuissé and Saint-Véran are riper and fruitier, thanks to the warmer climate in this area.

Terroir of Bourgogne

The terroir of Bourgogne is unique and plays a crucial role in the exceptional quality of its wines. The diverse soils, including limestone, clay, and gravel, give the wines their distinctive flavor profiles. The orientation of the vineyards and the continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers, contribute to the slow ripening of the grapes, resulting in complex and aromatic wines. Bourgogne's strict appellation system ensures the unique expression of each terroir is preserved.

Grape Varieties in Bourgogne

Bourgogne is best known for two grape varieties: Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, but the region also cultivates other varieties that have their own place in the Bourgogne wine world.

Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir is the king of red grape varieties in Bourgogne. The wines made from this grape are known for their finesse, elegance, and complex aromas of red berries, earth, and spices. Pinot Noir wines from the Côte de Nuits, such as Romanée-Conti and Gevrey-Chambertin, are among the most sought-after in the world.

Chardonnay

Chardonnay is the most prominent white grape variety in Bourgogne. Its versatility allows it to produce a wide range of wines, from the mineral, crisp wines of Chablis to the rich, oak-aged Chardonnays of the Côte de Beaune. These wines often exhibit flavors of green apple, citrus, and sometimes a buttery note.

Aligoté

Although less known, Aligoté plays an important role in Bourgogne. This white grape variety produces light, fresh wines with high acidity. The Bouzeron appellation in the Côte Chalonnaise is known for the best Aligoté wines, which are ideal for early consumption and often show refreshing flavors of citrus and herbs.

Order Bourgogne Wines Online

For wine lovers looking to discover the unique flavors of Bourgogne, there are numerous opportunities to order Bourgogne wines online. Whether you're seeking a refined Pinot Noir from the Côte de Nuits or a crisp Chardonnay from Chablis, ordering online offers the convenience of having the best wines from this prestigious region delivered straight to your door.

France is globally renowned for its exceptional wines, each originating from a unique region with distinct flavors and styles.

France as one of the largest and oldest wine-producing countries in the world

France is not only one of the oldest but also one of the largest wine-producing countries in the world. The moderately warm climate, which is favorable for grape cultivation, and the diversity of wine soils provide ideal conditions for viticulture. Thanks to the abundance of oak trees for barrel production and its central location in Europe, the French wine trade flourished early on, contributing to the quality and variety of French wines.

The soil diversity in France makes it possible to produce a wide range of wines. Due to its northern location, between the 43rd and 49th parallel, grapes take longer to ripen, which promotes complex aromas and retains good acidity. The extensive experience of French winemakers has led to an optimal alignment of wine and region.

Wine regions in France: from Bordeaux to the Loire Valley

France is home to some of the world’s most famous wine regions, such as Bordeaux, Burgundy, and the Loire Valley. Each region has its unique climate, soil, and grape varieties that influence the flavor of the wine. Bordeaux is known for its powerful red wines made from grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Burgundy offers refined wines made from Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, while the Loire Valley, stretching along France’s longest river, produces white wines such as Sauvignon Blanc and Chenin Blanc.

Other wine areas such as Champagne, Alsace, Provence, Beaujolais, and Languedoc-Roussillon are globally renowned, producing a variety of wines, from sparkling to fruity and rosé wines, beloved by both local and international enthusiasts.

French viticulture: tradition, regulation, and innovation

Wine production in France dates back over 2000 years. Thanks to continuous attention to research, education, and regulation, France has developed one of the most comprehensive wine laws in the world. These laws, such as the AOP (Appellation d’Origine Protégée) and IGP (Indication Géographique Protégée), set rules to preserve the authenticity of wines from specific regions.

These rules specify, among other things, which grape varieties may be planted, pruning methods, yields per hectare, and even wine style. Wines that meet these conditions can carry the AOP or IGP designation, which guarantees the quality and regional authenticity of French wine.

Grape varieties in French wine: from Chardonnay to Merlot

France is home to renowned grape varieties that are appreciated worldwide. Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon are just a few examples of grapes that thrive on French soil.

Chardonnay is particularly popular in Burgundy, where it adapts to both cool and warm climates. Pinot Noir, another classic from Burgundy, is known for its delicate flavor and red fruit aromas. Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon form the backbone of Bordeaux wines, each with their distinctive aromas and flavor profiles.

Climates of French wine regions: impact on flavor and quality

The variation in climate within France plays an important role in the diversity of French wine. The temperate climate in Bordeaux, the cool climate in Champagne, and the warm, dry climate in Provence each contribute to the unique characteristics of the wines.

In Champagne, the cool climate produces sparkling wines with refined bubbles and high acidity. Provence benefits from its warmth, which aids in the production of refreshing rosé wines. The Rhône Valley’s warm summers result in robust red wines from grapes such as Syrah and Grenache.

The scale of French wine production

France has about 785,000 hectares of vineyards, producing approximately 45 million hectoliters of wine annually. Of this vineyard area, roughly half is AOP wine, which stands for guaranteed origin and quality.

If you have a French wine from before 2011, you may see the term Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC), which was the predecessor to AOP. Besides AOP, IGP is also a common label, indicating wine with a protected geographic origin, signaling the wine's region of origin.

Why choose French wine?

France has established itself as a wine country through its unique combination of diverse terroirs, grape varieties, and climates. The knowledge and experience passed down through generations of French winemakers have led to the creation of wines that are hard to match in flavor and quality.

Whether you choose a powerful Bordeaux, a refined Burgundy, or a refreshing Champagne, France offers a wide selection of high-quality wines. At Grandcruwijnen, you’ll find French wines for every taste and occasion.

Want to order French wine online?

Do you want to enjoy a quality wine from France? At Grandcruwijnen, you can easily order your favorite French wine. Our extensive selection includes everything from Bordeaux wines like Petrus, Mouton, and Lafite to top rosé houses like Miraval, Minuty, and Ott, as well as the best Hermitage wines from the Rhône. All our wines are stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse. Moreover, you receive a discount when you pick up your order. The discount is immediately visible once you select 'Pickup' on the checkout page.

White wine is a beloved beverage appreciated worldwide for its fresh, fruity, and sometimes complex flavor profile. White wine ranges from dry to sweet and can feature light citrus notes, tropical fruit, and floral aromas. Well-known varieties include Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Riesling, each with unique characteristics depending on climate and aging. White wine is often served chilled and pairs wonderfully with fish dishes, salads, and soft cheeses.

Explore the World of White Wine: Quality, Flavor, and Diversity

Welcome to Grandcruwijnen, your online destination for a wide selection of white wines from around the globe. Whether you’re a connoisseur or simply looking for a delicious bottle to enjoy, our collection offers a range of flavors, from classic labels to hidden gems.

White Wine: An Art of Grape and Terroir

White wine, made by fermenting grape juice without skins, stems, or seeds, offers a diverse experience shaped by grape variety, region, climate, and winemaking methods. From the fruity aromas of a Burgundy Chardonnay to the vibrant notes of a Chilean Chardonnay, each bottle tells its own story.

Discover Our Selection of White Wines

At Grandcruwijnen, we offer a carefully curated selection of white wines for every taste and occasion. Whether you're looking for an elegant Sauvignon Blanc, a refreshing Verdejo, or a full-bodied Riesling, we have it all. But we also go beyond the familiar names. We feature wines from lesser-known grapes like Godello, Albariño, Viura, Vermentino, and Grillo, each offering unique character and surprising flavors.

Our white wine collection spans regions and countries—from the traditional wine regions of France to the emerging markets of Argentina, New Zealand, and Spain. Whether you're seeking the finesse of a French Chablis or the liveliness of an Argentine Torrontés, you’ll find exactly what you're looking for at Grandcruwijnen.

Sweet White Wine: A Tempting Delicacy

Indulge in the sweet temptations of our sweet white wines selection. Discover the lush flavors and delightful aromas that make these wines truly unique. Whether it’s an elegant Moscato, a rich Riesling Auslese, or a refreshing late harvest wine, our collection of sweet white wines is sure to surprise and delight you.

Dry White Wine: Refined and Balanced

For lovers of dry white wine, we offer an extensive selection of refined and balanced wines. From the crisp minerality of a Sauvignon Blanc to the complexity of a Chardonnay, our dry white wines embody elegance and finesse. Let yourself be surprised by the diverse flavors and aromas these wines have to offer.

Alcohol-Free White Wine

Alcohol-free white wine is an excellent alternative for those who want to enjoy the flavor and experience of wine without the effects of alcohol. These wines are traditionally made, with the alcohol carefully removed while preserving as much of the original aroma and character as possible. The result is a fresh, light-bodied wine that pairs perfectly with light dishes, as an aperitif, or simply as a refreshing glass at any time of day. At Grandcruwijnen, you’ll find a high-quality selection of alcohol-free white wines crafted by producers who specialize in this refined category.

Types of White Wine

Discover the diversity of white wine styles at Grandcruwijnen. From familiar names like Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc to hidden gems like Godello and Vermentino, there’s something for everyone in our extensive collection. Embark on a flavorful journey and discover new favorites to enjoy.

Order White Wine Online at Grandcruwijnen

At Grandcruwijnen, ordering white wine is easy and fast. Browse our extensive selection, choose your favorites, and place your order with confidence. We are committed to quality and customer satisfaction and are proud to offer you the best white wines—delivered straight to your doorstep.

Chardonnay might just be the most versatile white grape in the world. From crisp, mineral Chablis to rich and creamy Napa Valley wines, this grape can do it all. No wonder winemakers and wine lovers can’t get enough of it. 

Chardonnay history and origin

The birthplace of Chardonnay is Burgundy, France. The small village of Chardonnay in the Mâconnais region gave the grape its name. It’s believed to be a natural crossing between Pinot and the ancient Gouais Blanc. Already in the Middle Ages, Chardonnay was recognized as a grape with great potential.

Burgundy is still the ultimate reference point. From Puligny-Montrachet and Meursault come some of the most refined examples. In Chablis, Chardonnay is the star: sharp, mineral, and refreshing.

In Champagne, it’s often blended with Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. Sometimes it shines solo, in a Blanc de Blancs, showing just how adaptable Chardonnay really is.

Ideal conditions for Chardonnay

Chardonnay can grow almost anywhere, but it thrives best on limestone soils. In cooler climates it delivers high acidity and a lean style. In warmer regions you’ll get riper fruit flavors and a fuller body. Winemakers can influence the style further through oak aging and batonnage (stirring the lees). That’s why wines from the same grape can taste so completely different.

Chardonnay around the world

Outside France, Chardonnay has conquered the globe. In California—especially Napa Valley and Sonoma—it’s loved in a richer, more opulent style with tropical fruit and a touch of vanilla from oak. In Australia, regions like Yarra Valley and Margaret River produce both crisp and powerful versions. South Africa, Chile, and Argentina add their own twists. Even in cooler New Zealand, Chardonnay thrives, often showing lively acidity and pure fruit.

Typical characteristics of Chardonnay wines

Chardonnay is a true chameleon. In Chablis you’ll taste lemon, green apple, and salty minerality. In Burgundy you get more depth, often with notes of butter, hazelnut, and white stone fruit. In the New World, flavors lean toward pineapple, mango, and ripe peach. Winemaking choices matter too: oak brings roundness, creaminess, and hints of vanilla or toast, while stainless steel preserves freshness and a clean profile.

What to eat with Chardonnay?

Chardonnay’s versatility makes it a natural match at the table. A few go-to pairings:

• Chablis: oysters, sushi, ceviche
• Burgundy: roast chicken with lemon, creamy pasta, comté cheese
• Champagne Blanc de Blancs: shellfish, light cheeses
• New World Chardonnay: grilled salmon, lobster with butter, soft cheeses

The rule of thumb: light Chardonnay with light dishes, fuller styles with richer foods. That way, everything stays in balance.

Fun facts about Chardonnay

– Chardonnay is the most widely planted white grape variety in the world.

– In the 1990s, the “ABC movement” (Anything But Chardonnay) appeared because the grape had become so dominant. Ironically, it never lost its popularity. At Grandcruwijnen, ABC means Au Bon Climat these days!

– Champagne made only from Chardonnay is called “Blanc de Blancs,” known for its freshness and finesse.

– Winemakers often call it a “winemaker’s grape,” because it offers so many possibilities in the cellar.

Order Chardonnay online?

At Grandcruwijnen you’ll find a wide selection of Chardonnays: from crisp Chablis to rich Burgundies and characterful New World bottles. All wines are stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse. Picking up your order yourself? You’ll receive an instant discount, visible right away when you select ‘Afhalen’ (Pick-up) at checkout.