Giroux Pouilly-Fuissé “Raidillons” 2021

Sebastien Giroux is a quiet and careful winemaker making superb wines of understatement and precision. If some Maconnais whites can verge into overripeness in warm years, Sebastien’s are entirely devoid of heaviness. His careful winemaking – low sulfur, minimal oak, extremely long elevage – results in minimalist wines of precision and grace. Think Thomas Morey an hour south.

This is always among our favorite bottlings here, and this year it simply shines. The extra ripeness of the vintage is evident, but as always comes with Sebastien’s signature restraint and finesse. The nose is superb, with spice, fruit, and spring flowers all in perfect harmony. The mouth is perfectly integrated with notes of honeysuckle and brioche, and a whisper of oak amid a rich palate.