Les Petits Cailloux (2019) - Edouard Lepesme Le Domaine d'Edouard

Les Petits Cailloux means “the little pebbles”, a direct reference to the stony, limestone soils that characterise the Côtes d’Auxerre. Lepesme is an independent grower who works with a natural, low-intervention approach.

The appellation: Bourgogne Aligoté AOC

The Bourgogne Aligoté AOC is a fresh, lively white wine produced in the renowned wine region of Burgundy, in France. Made mainly from the native Aligoté variety, this wine is an elegant, versatile alternative to the Chardonnays of the area. The Bourgogne Aligoté AOC appellation is known for its bright acidity, its floral and fruity aromas and its ability to suit a wide range of food pairings.

What to eat with Les Petits Cailloux

Who makes it: Edouard Lepesme Le Domaine d'Edouard

Édouard Lepesme initially worked in the bulk wine trade until 2010; then, in 2011, he studied viticulture and oenology in Beaune, refining his philosophy with experience in Chablis (Alice & Olivier de Moor, Thomas Pico) and at other Burgundy domaines. In 2014 he bought around 13-14 ha in the Vaux-Auxerre area, in the Côte d'Auxerre, from a local producer (Dessus Bon Boire / André Donat) who had already been using organic farming practices in the past.

The vine of Les Petits Cailloux

Aligoté

Aligoté is a white grape variety native to Burgundy, in France, known for its freshness, liveliness and versatility. The second most widely planted white variety in the region after Chardonnay, Aligoté is often associated with the production of Bourgogne Aligoté AOC, a fresh, light wine, but it also lends itself to the preparation of the famous Kir cocktail, made with crème de cassis.

Les Petits Cailloux: the Auxerrois area

Climate: Continental

Altitude: Low to mid altitude (200–500 m above sea level)

Soil: Limestone / chalk

Geographical setting: Hilly

Profile of Les Petits Cailloux

Primary aromas: White flowers, Lemon, Green apple, Pear, Herbaceous hints

Secondary aromas: Yeast, Hazelnut, Marine and iodine notes

Tertiary aromas: Honey, Mineral notes

Tasting notes: A bright straw yellow colour with greenish highlights. The nose is fragrant and direct, with aromas of citrus and white flowers. The palate is taut and vertical, with the lively acidity typical of Aligoté. The mouth is fresh and savoury, highly drinkable. A clean finish, with returning citrus and mineral notes.