New Pouilly Premier Crus
Burgundy’s Pouilly-Loché and Pouilly-Vinzelles appellations have joined the ranks of Premier Cru wines, following their neighbour Pouilly-Fuissé’s 2020 success. These Chardonnay-exclusive appellations, spanning 32ha and 52ha respectively, will bear the prestigious classification starting with the 2024 vintage.
Prominent Climats, including Les Mûres in Pouilly-Loché and Les Quarts in Pouilly-Vinzelles, were promoted after an 18-year process that began in 2006, with the INAO (Institut Nationale des Appellations d’Origine) which included terroir analysis and historical studies. Strict rules will ban herbicides and impose hand-harvesting (a first for Burgundy Premier Crus), and limit yields to 58hl/ha, underscoring a commitment to quality and sustainability.
Just 1% of Burgundy’s vineyards are classified as Grand Crus. A further 10% are Premier Crus, 37% are village wines and 52% are regional wines.
The new Premier Cru wines will only reach the market after being aged until at least the 1st July following harvest.
