Based in Cruzille, Guillot-Broux was founded in 1978 when the land was cheap and the wines of the Maconnais not exactly known for their grandness. Cruzille is gifted with limestone, marl and iron rich soils; sunshine, rainfall and elevation – an area gifted with fine sites and excellent potential. Typically in the late 90’s Macconais whites fell into two camps – firstly, massive, rich and oaky and secondly, supermarket slosh that tasted like it could have come from anywhere.
The wines of Guillot-Broux are typical of great producers in Burgundy. East facing, sloping, high density vineyards on limestone and clay soils (sure, most of the great Burgundy vineyards are south and southeast facing, but this far south, east facing vineyards capture ample sunshine, and are cooler, ensuring coolness, cut and tang). Organically worked, since the very first certifications in 1991, low yields, local clones, barrel fermented and aged with absolutely no additions accept for the necessary sulphur.
The domain’s wines are juicy, bright, pure and translucent. Concentrated, chiselled, cut, without fat; with tangy citrus and orchard fruits, white flowers, subtle spice notes and brioche. Flavours are as mouthcoating as they are mouthwatering, and with faint texture that holds the palate for minutes.
These are grand wines of exceptional value from a hard working and dedicated producer. Expressive of their site and region? Certainly, but far more important, bloody delicious.
The very definition of Chardonnay, from a variety of vineyards across appellations. One of the best value we have ever tasted. Complex aromatics of fig, mandarin blossom, nougat, white flowers, lime, white peach and nectarine. Unctuous juicy and bright, succulent fruit, cut through with cooling freshness and texture. Holds on the palate for minutes. Utterly delicious, ample and generous. Our new house Chardonnay, no doubt about it.
Guillot-Broux Les Genevrieres 2020
A vineyard long abandoned, replanted to high density in 1983. East facing with a bed of limestone over clay. Subtle, yet soaring aromatics of smoke, peach, acacia honey, grapefruit and gardenia. Tight, tangy and coiled. Focused, precise and deep. Tingling with fresh citrus, zest, orchard fruits, lemon drops and minerals. The fruit is so pristine, pure and juicy. Invigorating power and freshness, with many absorbing years ahead.
