Presentation
Founded over three centuries ago, Maison Jean Fournier is one of the historic estates of Marsannay, a flagship appellation of the Côte de Nuits. Now under the stewardship of Laurent Fournier, the estate has become a model of commitment to organic and biodynamic viticulture, applied with great precision to enhance the identity of Burgundy’s terroirs. The domaine covers 16 hectares, mainly in the appellations of Marsannay, Fixin and Gevrey-Chambertin. It is one of the pioneers in promoting Marsannay’s white wines, which here express remarkable minerality. The reds, crafted from massal selections of Pinot Noir, are vinified using a gentle infusion method, with minimal extraction to reveal the full finesse of the grape variety. The estate’s signature lies in a low-intervention approach, producing wines that are finely sculpted, precise, and of great aromatic purity.
Location
The Saint Urbain cuvée comes from several plots located on the upper slopes of the Marsannay appellation, between Chenôve and Couchey. These east-facing hillsides enjoy regular sunlight and cool nights, which help preserve the grapes' natural acidity. The altitude, around 280 to 300 metres, brings freshness and energy to the wine. Named in tribute to the patron saint of winemakers, this cuvée reflects the domaine’s deep roots in tradition while embracing a forward-thinking, sustainable approach.
Terroir
The soils here are light clay-limestone with a marl-rich structure and high mineral content. The shallow subsoils encourage deep rooting and allow for a pure expression of Chardonnay. This geological makeup gives the wine its linear structure, marked minerality and precise aromas. Yields are naturally limited, producing grapes with concentration and freshness, without excess. This terroir favours clarity, finesse and balance in the final wine.
In the vineyard
Farmed organically (certified since 2008), the vineyard is cultivated without synthetic chemicals. Tillage is done mechanically or by hand depending on slope, and some biodynamic practices are used to enhance soil life and plant health. The domaine takes a minimal intervention approach, allowing the vine to thrive naturally. The goal is to produce healthy, vibrant grapes that express their origin with purity and authenticity.
Harvest
Harvesting is done by hand with careful sorting in the vineyard. Grapes are pressed whole-cluster, and juice is cold-settled before being transferred to oak barrels (no new wood) for fermentation with indigenous yeasts.
Winemaking
The wine is then aged on fine lees for around 18 months, with minimal bâtonnage to preserve its precision.
Ageing
Barrels are selected for their neutrality, so as not to overpower the wine. Bottling is done without systematic filtration to maintain the wine’s integrity.
Varietals
Chardonnay Blanc : 80%
Chardonnay Rose : 8%
Pinot blanc : 8%
Pinot Beurot : 4%
Specifications
Alcohol content : 13 % vol.
Serving
Serve around 10 - 12°C
Ageing potential
3 to 5 years
Tasting
Saint Urbain Blanc presents a bright, pale gold colour. The nose is expressive, offering notes of citrus, white flowers, crisp pear and wet stone. The palate is lively, driven by sharp tension, precision and a crystalline texture. The finish is long and saline, leaving a lasting impression of purity and freshness. This is a balanced, linear wine that elegantly captures the cool, mineral character of the Marsannay terroir. It can be enjoyed young or aged for greater depth and complexity.
Food pairings
This refined white wine pairs beautifully with elegant, balanced cuisine. It is an excellent match for citrus-marinated sea bream ceviche, veal blanquette with crisp vegetables, or fennel and preserved lemon risotto. For cheese, pair it with aged Chavignol goat cheese or a soft, tangy fresh cheese. On the sweet side, a lemon meringue tart or a yuzu and green tea shortbread makes a bright and seamless match. This luminous white fits perfectly into delicate and precise gastronomy, where freshness and finesse take centre stage.
