Presentation
A winemaker from father to son, Raphaël Sallet has always been passionate about the vine. In 1986, at just 21 years old, he created his own estate with 0.40 hectares of vines. His first vintage was born in 1987. Since then, he has gradually expanded his vineyard by planting an average of 1.5 hectares per year. In 1994, his father Gérard Sallet, a former cooperative member, joined the family adventure. Together, they structured the estate, which today reaches over 26 hectares, spread across the appellations Mâcon-Chardonnay, Mâcon-Uchizy, and Mâcon-Villages. Since 2018, Marylène Sallet has also been cultivating 2.6 hectares in Viré, including a historic plot: "Clos du Chapitre," a former vineyard of the Cluny monks, allowing the production of an exceptional Viré-Clessé. The originality of the estate? An authentic family approach and controlled expansion that enhance the terroirs of the Mâconnais.
Location
The vineyards are located in the villages of Chardonnay and Plottes, in southern Burgundy’s northern Mâconnais.
Average altitude: 240 m — Exposure: West and South-facing slopes.
Terroir
Gently sloping clay-limestone soils—ideal for balanced ripeness and freshness.
In the vineyard
Soil work and single Guyot pruning help maintain vine health. The viticulture is sustainably managed, applying respectful practices based on regular observation and adaptation. The vineyard holds HVE certification.
Harvest
Mechanically harvested.
Winemaking
Grapes are softly pressed using low-pressure pneumatic presses, preserving juice integrity. After cold settling, alcoholic and malolactic fermentations take place in temperature-controlled barrels (15%) and stainless steel tanks (85%). The wine evolves on fine lees, then is lightly filtered and bottled in summer.
Varietal
Chardonnay : 100%
Specifications
Age of vines : 35 years old
Serving
12°C
Ageing potential
2 to 3 years
Tasting
The nose is intense and finely balanced between mineral notes and fruit character. On the palate, the wine unfolds in harmony rich and generous highlighting yellow fruit flavors balanced with expressive minerality.
Food pairings
Pairs exceptionally well with:
White meats in sauce and poultry
Frog legs or escargots
Sauced fish or fish meunière
Goat cheeses and cooked-paste cheeses