If you enjoy the buttery richness of a California Chardonnay or the crisp snap of a chilled Pinot Grigio, it might be time to elevate your glass. France, the birthplace of Chardonnay, offers a refined expression of this beloved grape that goes beyond oak and fruit. 

Two standout regions—Pouilly-Fuissé and Mâcon-Lugny, nestled in the heart of Burgundy—produce white wines that are elegant, balanced, and versatile. Maison Louis Latour, a historic Burgundian producer, crafts these wines with tradition and finesse. In this guide, we invite you to explore the flavors of Pouilly-Fuissé and Mâcon-Lugny, and how they beautifully complement everything from a casual lobster boil at home to elevated dining experiences in Miami and New York City.

CHARDONNAY’S FRENCH ROOTS

The popular white wine grape's name is thought to takes its name from the village of Chardonnay in the Mâconnais region of Bourgogne (Burgundy). The Mâconnais region in Burgundy has 27 geographical appellations, with sub-appellations like Pouilly-Fuissé and Mâcon-Lugny producing standout expressions.

In the U.S., Chardonnay became popular in the 1950s, and by the 1980s, California had more Chardonnay vines than France. Early California Chardonnays were inspired by Burgundy, but over time they developed a richer, buttery style. Grapes were picked riper, with more sugar, and winemakers used more new oak barrels. This bold style became especially popular in Napa Valley and cooler areas like Sonoma County.

What sets Burgundy Chardonnay apart is its terroir. The grape’s subtle character reflects the region’s diverse soils and microclimates, offering flavors from citrus and apple to refined minerality. With centuries of expertise behind them, Burgundy producers continue to craft wines of elegance and depth. 

Burgundy’s unique wine region is celebrating 10 years as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making now the perfect time to enjoy its famous Chardonnay wines.

THE HOUSE THAT CHARDONNAY BUILT

Maison Louis Latour has been making wine in Burgundy since 1797, with over 200 years of tradition behind it. This respected, family-owned winery uses grapes from its own vineyards and also works with trusted independent growers. Known around the world, Louis Latour is celebrated for its commitment to quality and honoring classic winemaking traditions.

For many consumers approaching Burgundy for the first time, Latour’s wines are a comprehensive introduction. The whites are typically well-structured and offer good balance between acidity and concentration.

MEET THE WINES: POUILLY-FUISSÉ  & MÂCON-LUGNY 

By exploring Pouilly-Fuissé and Mâcon-Lugny, American Chardonnay enthusiasts can discover different expressions of this beloved grape variety, appreciate the concept of less oak, more terroir, and expand their appreciation for French wines.

Pouilly-Fuissé is a village in the Mâconnais known for its distinctive Chardonnay wines, made from vineyards set in stunning limestone and clay-rich landscapes that give the wine its unique character.

A pale golden and un-oaked Chardonnay wine, the elegant 2023 Pouilly-Fuissé from Latour has a delicate honeysuckle aroma, notes of orchard fruits such as melon and pear, a hint of hazelnut, and a crisp minerality that gives it a smooth, satisfying finish.

High in southern Mâcon, the village of Lugny is famed for its warm climate, limestone soils, and exceptional Chardonnay grapes—especially from the prized "Les Genièvres" vineyard—making it one of the top sources for Maison Louis Latour's celebrated white wines.

The pale yellow 2023 Mâcon-Lugny "Les Genièvres" is an un-oaked Chardonnay with fresh floral and citrus notes, a creamy texture, and rich aromas of muscatel, brioche, and yellow peach.

Both Chardonnays pair well with seafood like shellfish, sushi, or sashimi. They also complement fresh salads with light dressings, and dishes featuring mild seasonings, like grilled chicken or fish with herbs.

AT-HOME INDULGENCE: A LOBSTER BOIL WITH FRENCH FLAIR

Get Maine Lobster, a top-rated direct-to-consumer seafood company, brings the taste of the Maine coast straight to your door. Their wild-caught lobster is cooked, flash-frozen, and shipped for peak freshness—making it easy to enjoy restaurant-quality seafood at home.

One of their signature offerings is the Ultimate Lobster Boil Kit. This all-in-one seafood feast includes lobster tails, shrimp, scallops, corn on the cob, and baby potatoes—all meant to be cooked together in a single pot. 

While cooking, pour yourself a glass of chilled French Chardonnay. The freshness and acidity of Mâcon-Lugny complements the sweet flavor of the tender Maine lobster tails beautifully—and don’t forget to save a splash for the pot!

From your own pantry, just gather a lemon, a yellow onion, fresh thyme, a bulb of garlic, ¾ cup of seafood stock or water, and one cup of dry white wine. A Dutch oven or large pot with a lid is all you need, and everything cooks in under 20 minutes.

For extra flavor, finish your lobster boil with a drizzle of homemade butter sauce seasoned with Lobster Roll Dust—a spice blend created by Margaret Salt McLellan, former Maine Lobster Chef of the Year.

WEB: GetMaineLobster.com IG: @getmainelobster

ICONIC MIAMI FINE DINING RESTAURANTS FOR SIPPING LATOUR’S WHITES

Suggestions for upscale or wine-forward restaurants in Miami that serve Pouilly-Fuissé or Mâcon-Lugny include Smith & Wollensky, Joes Stone Crab Restaurant, and, a personal favorite, LPM Restaurant & Bar, (La Petite Maison). 

For French Riviera-inspired cuisine at LPM, we recommend pairing these excellent white wines from Burgundy with the Escargots De Bourgogne  (snails with garlic butter and parsley) or whole sea bream baked with provençal herbs and lemon - Daurade Entière Au Citron.

TOP NEW YORK FRENCH RESTAURANTS FOR PAIRING LATOUR’S WHITES

Legendary French restaurants in NYC where you can experience Maison Louis Latour whites include Le Bilboquet, Little Prince, and the very chic La Mercerie, located in Soho’s Roman and Williams Guild building.

The crispy chicken at La Mercerie, Poulet Fermier Au Vin Jaune Et Morilles, or the Dover Sole Meunière are dishes that match beautifully with these wines.

Whether you're hosting a backyard lobster boil or dining at a fine restaurant, exploring French white wines is a rewarding journey in taste and tradition. With wines like Pouilly-Fuissé and Mâcon-Lugny, Louis Latour brings the elegance of Burgundy into everyday moments, making French wine both approachable and luxurious. 

WEB:Maison Louis Latour