Presentation
The vineyard of Les Temps Perdus was established in 1992 when Clotilde planted her first Chardonnay vines. Since then, driven by a passion for terroir and life, she has cultivated and tended her vines with the utmost care. Today, the estate spans 30 hectares of small vineyard plots, featuring a variety of grape varieties and vine ages, spread across the villages of Saint-Bris, Chablis and Irancy. This typically Burgundian mosaic allows Clotilde to devote herself entirely to crafting exceptional cuvées.
Location
The vines used for Saint-Bris at Domaine des Temps Perdus are located near the village of Saint-Bris-le-Vineux, in the Yonne, southwest of Chablis. Planted on well-exposed slopes at an average altitude of 250 to 280 meters, they benefit from a cool continental climate with wide diurnal temperature variation. This setting allows for full aromatic ripeness while preserving the grape’s natural tension. The Sauvignon Blanc, uniquely allowed under this AOC in Burgundy, expresses itself here with rare freshness and finesse, distinctive to this small, singular terroir.
Terroir
The soil is composed of clay-limestone and marly layers, rich in marine fossils, similar to those found in nearby Chablis. These soils provide excellent drainage and help regulate the vine’s hydration and temperature cycles. This terroir gives the wine a crisp mineral structure, bright acidity and pure aromatic expression. The combination of terroir and Sauvignon Blanc results in white wines that are taut, lively and elegant, with fruit-forward, vegetal and saline notes on the finish.
In the vineyard
The estate is farmed with deep respect for the environment, following organic principles. Soils are worked mechanically without the use of herbicides or synthetic chemicals. Ground cover is managed carefully to maintain biodiversity and prevent erosion. Treatments are applied only when necessary and consist exclusively of natural products. Each viticultural task is adapted to the growing season to promote healthy, expressive fruit in harmony with nature.
Harvest
Harvesting is done by hand in the early morning to retain freshness and delicate aromatics. Grapes are carefully sorted and gently pressed. Cold settling allows only the clearest juice to be kept
Winemaking
Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, using indigenous yeasts, at low temperatures to preserve varietal expression.
Ageing
The wine is aged on fine lees for about 6 to 8 months without bâtonnage, adding a touch of roundness while maintaining purity. Bottling occurs the following spring without heavy filtration.
Varietal
Sauvignon : 100%
Specifications
Age of vines : 34 years old
Serving
Serve between 8 and 12°C
Ageing potential
5 to 10 years
Tasting
Saint-Bris from Domaine des Temps Perdus shows a clear, pale yellow color with green highlights. The nose is vibrant and typical of Sauvignon Blanc, with notes of blackcurrant bud, lime, grapefruit and delicate white flowers. The palate is sharp and energetic, with bright acidity and a saline, refreshing finish. The wine is clean-cut, expressive and mouthwatering, ideal for fans of crisp, dry whites. It’s best enjoyed young for its vitality, or after a year for a slightly rounder profile.
Food pairings
This wine pairs beautifully with fresh, aromatic or seafood-based cuisine. Try it with grilled oysters topped with lemon and dill, sea bream ceviche with fresh coriander, or a shaved fennel and orange salad with olive oil. Its zippy acidity contrasts beautifully with rich textures and tangy flavors. On the sweet side, it works wonderfully with key lime pie, exotic fruit salad or homemade yogurt and citrus zest ice cream. This Saint-Bris elevates bright, crunchy, fragrant dishes, both savory and sweet.
