Saint-Bris - burgundywine.com

Saint-Bris is Burgundy’s only appellation permitted to produce white wines from Sauvignon Blanc and Sauvignon Gris, setting it apart in a region dominated by Chardonnay. Located near Chablis, its cool climate and limestone soils yield crisp, aromatic wines with lively acidity. Typical aromas include citrus, gooseberry, and flint, often with a subtle salinity reflecting the Kimmeridgian terroir. Saint-Bris offers a fascinating alternative to Chablis—familiar in freshness but distinct in varietal character. These wines are excellent young, pairing beautifully with oysters, goat cheese, or light salads, and showcase Burgundy’s diversity and capacity for surprise.

White Wines

Saint-Bris stands alone in Burgundy for its expressive Sauvignon Blanc and Sauvignon Gris, producing whites that are crisp, aromatic, and full of personality. The cool, limestone-rich vineyards near Chablis lend purity and minerality, while the grape varieties contribute vibrant notes of lime, grapefruit, gooseberry, and fresh herbs. On the palate, the wines are lively and refreshing, with a saline edge that mirrors the fossil-rich Kimmeridgian soils. Stainless steel fermentation preserves brightness and precision, while a few producers experiment with lees aging for added texture. These wines are best enjoyed young, offering a zesty alternative to Chardonnay-driven Burgundies—perfect with shellfish, sushi, or creamy goat cheese.

Red Wines

While Saint-Bris is an appellation devoted exclusively to white wines, a small amount of red wine is produced nearby under the broader Bourgogne Côtes d’Auxerre or Irancy designations. Within the Saint-Bris area, experimental Pinot Noir vines can express a cool-climate profile—delicate, aromatic, and finely etched. These reds show redcurrant, cherry, and subtle spice, carried by bright acidity and soft tannins. They are light-bodied and elegant, echoing the northern Burgundian style shaped by chalky soils and a brisk climate. Though not labeled as Saint-Bris AOC, such wines demonstrate the versatility of the region and the nuanced character possible when Pinot Noir grows beside Sauvignon on these ancient limestone slopes.