For over three decades Boutinot has been based in the Mâconnais in southern Burgundy; relying upon Samantha Bailey to craft and blend wines which honestly express the tapestry of the local terroir. With a ‘back of the hand' knowledge of the effect of each slope and soil type on a wine, they dared to imagine owning an estate, yet such opportunities are rare in Burgundy as domaines pass from one generation to the next. Finally they succeeded in buying two key plots in the best climats of Saint-Véran, together with a gravity fed winery (in need of renovation) and a 300 year old house made of the local honey stone. A place they call GENETIE, in honour of the mysterious name they found etched into the stone of a listed pillar within the building. While they renovate the cellar and building they will continue to discover interesting wines that truthfully represent the diverse terroir of the Mâconnais.

From a 12 hectare plot in the village of Bussières, to the south of the Mâconnais region, with an average vine age of about 40 years. The soil is classic argilo-calcaire that suits Chardonnay so well and that lends elegance and finesse to the final wines. 10% of the wine is barrel aged to give a more textural, slightly creamy element.

An admirable accompaniment to the classic Burgundian dish of poulet à la crème (chicken in creamy sauce), or a shellfish chowder. Great with vegetable risotto and pan fried fish, too.