Saint Aubin used to be our hunting ground for top-quality white Burgundy. Like Saint Romain, it is located behind the famous appellations of Meursault, Puligny-Montrachet and Chassagne-Montrachet. The appellation takes its name from the village of Saint Aubin, but includes also the neighboring Gamay.

Several young, ambitious, and talented growers have turned into Chardonnay at the end of the previous century as a result of a significant increase in demand and price level, and prices, sadly, are no longer the bargains they used to be. However, you might still come across a poor mans Puligny with the steeliness of Puligny-Montrachet, but less elegant and perfumed, which is fairly priced!

The 1er Cru vineyards in St. Aubin form three main blocks, the best of which is on your right as you drive up the N6 from Chagny. These include En Remilly, Murgers des Dents de Chien, Sur Gamay, La Chateniére and Champlots. These are the wines to look for, as they can have plenty of crisp raciness and character. Many growers also make wine from Blagny, Puligny- and Chassagne Montrachet which can be a bargin. On a sunny day, you should take the small roads from Gamay to Meursault and enjoy the panoramic views towards Saint Aubin (se above), Puligny Montrachet and Mersault.

Sylvain Langoureau represents the 5th generation of vignerons in the family in Gamay. Giles Bouton (husk link), who lives almost next door might be a relative, since his grandfather also carried the name Langoureau! The domaine covers 9ha, 90% of which is planted with Chardonnay and Aligoté. Saint Aubin 1er Cru vineyards include En Remilly, Le Champlot, Les Frionnes, Sur le Sentier du Clou, Bas de Vermarain á 1’Est and Derriére Chez Edouard. From Blagny they make Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru la Garenne and les Chalumaux, in addition to 1er Cru Mersault la Piéce sous le Bois. From Chassagne Montrachet they make three different villages: Les Houiliéres, Les Perclos and Les Pierres. Finally, they also make Saint Aubin village. Vineyards are carefully looked after, and vinification is traditional with un élevage en fut de chene for 11 months. Approximately one third of the barrels are renewed each year.

We have enjoyed tastings with madame Langoureau very much. Although not coming from a family of vignerons she had detailed practical insight into all aspects of the production. So far, we have selected En Remilly, Les Frionnes and Les Houiliéres.