Domaine Jean-Claude Thevenet Macon-Pierreclos 2000

In all respects, the 2000 Thevenet Macon-Pierreclos is a classic Maconnais. This wine's clean, apple blossom scent and spring-like freshness epitomize the enjoyable, uncomplicated style of Chardonnay for which the Macon is justifiably renowned. Light, gentle but persuasive, Thevenet's Pierreclos reveals the appealing flavor of clarified butter as well as apple, mingled with a touch of lime and a certain "je ne sais quoi", which makes it go down oh…so easy. What makes this Chardonnay so appealing is its supreme elegance and balance; one never has to work at enjoying it. Serve the Thevenet Macon-Pierreclos moderately chilled (45°-50°).

Given the elegance and blithe spirit of Thevenet's 2000 Macon-Pierreclos, his wine plays the role perfectly of the aperitif par excellent. Served before dinner at a party or gathering, the 2000 Thevenet Macon-Pierreclos wets the appetite without ruining the appetite or the palate. It also makes for a wonderful accompaniment to simply prepared shellfish. Recently, we served Thevenet's Macon-Pierreclos with whole steamed lobsters to the delight of all. Neither the wine nor the lobster vied for palate supremacy, making the combination a perfect complement. Poached salmon or sole provide other winning complements, as would a fresh pasta primavera. Enjoy!

Jean-Claude Thevenet is a third generation "vigneron" whose winery is located in the heart of the Maconnais in the village of Pierreclos. Thevenet's grandfather was the winemaker for the Chateau de Pierreclos, while his father developed an enterprise as a supplier of prime vine rootstock. In the early 1950's, Thevenet's father began acquiring vineyards. In 1971, when Jean-Claude was only 17 years old, he and his father began estate bottling their own wines. Today, the Thevenet's own more than 50 acres of vineyards in the adjoining communes of Pierreclos, Prisse, and Rilly Lamortine. Thevenet's vineyards are planted almost exclusively to Chardonnay and are spread between two major appellations: St. Veran and Macon-Villages Pierreclos. Thevenet also produces a small amount of Bourgogne Rouge and a Macon Rouge as well as an outstanding sparkling wine composed entirely from Chardonnay. The entire harvest each year is done manually, and not a single drop of Thevenet's wine is sold to negociants.