Burgundy Wine Region: Inspired Plunge into World-Class Pinot Noir & Chardonnay

Burgundy Wine Region: Inspired Plunge into World-Class Pinot Noir & Chardonnay

Burgundy: A Wine Lover’s Paradise

The Burgundy wine region in eastern France captivates wine lovers worldwide with its exceptional wines. A Burgundy wine region map reveals vineyards stretching across rolling hills, producing some of the finest expressions of wine from the Burgundy region of France. Collectors and connoisseurs seek out its Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, the two grape varietals that define the region’s winemaking identity. Exploring a map of Burgundy France wine region helps visitors navigate its renowned sub-regions. For those visiting Burgundy wine region, expect a journey through historic villages, prestigious vineyards, and unforgettable wine experiences.

Location & Geography

map of Burgundy wine regions - with all five subregions

Burgundy spans central-eastern France, stretching over 250 km (155 miles) from Chablis in the north to Beaujolais in the south. The region divides into five key sub-regions, each with distinctive terroir:

  • Chablis
  • CĂ´te de Nuits
  • CĂ´te de Beaune
  • CĂ´te Chalonnaise
  • Mâconnais

Climate & Its Influence

Burgundy’s continental climate brings cold winters and warm summers. The Atlantic Ocean introduces moisture and humidity, making weather conditions unpredictable. Sudden temperature shifts and rainfall significantly impact the quality of each vintage. These climatic variations play a crucial role in shaping the character of Burgundy wines.

Terroir: The Soul of Burgundy Wines

Burgundy’s terroir stands out due to its diverse soil composition and topography. Limestone, clay, and marl create ideal conditions for growing Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The region’s hilly terrain, varying altitudes, and vineyard slopes contribute to each wine’s unique expression. Sun exposure further influences ripeness and flavor development, adding complexity to Burgundy wines. Pinot Noir thrives with its earthy, savory profile, while Chardonnay expresses bright minerality and citrus notes.

The Key Grape Varietals

  • Pinot Noir: Burgundy’s most celebrated red grape, known for its elegance, complexity, and aromas of red fruit, floral notes, and earthiness.
Small berries in a double cluster of grapes hanging from grapevine. Leaves are autumnal as golden with peachy accents.

Pinot Noir Grapes

  • Chardonnay: The flagship white grape, producing wines that are crisp, fresh, and mineral-driven, with flavors of apple, lemon, and pear, often complemented by subtle oak influence.
Glass of golden Chardonnay sitting in front of Chardonnay leaves and behind a Chardonnay grape bunch.

Chardonnay Grapes

Styles of Burgundy Wine

  • Red Burgundy: Made from Pinot Noir, these wines offer earthy, fruity, and savory flavors with a delicate acidity and soft tannins.
  • White Burgundy: Crafted from Chardonnay, these wines showcase crisp acidity, minerality, and subtle oak nuances.
  • Chablis: A sub-region of Burgundy specializing in highly regarded white wines made from Chardonnay. These wines stand out for their bright acidity, flinty minerality, and crisp finish.
  • CĂ´te de Beaune: This sub-region produces both red and white wines, known for their richness, complexity, and elegant structure.

Burgundy’s Winemaking History

Burgundy’s winemaking roots trace back to the Roman Empire. Over the centuries, the region evolved into a center for trade and commerce. During the 14th and 15th centuries, the powerful Dukes of Burgundy played a key role in expanding its influence. The region’s winemaking flourished, setting the foundation for the world-class wines produced today.

Napoleon Bonaparte’s early 19th-century Napoleonic Code of Inheritance reshaped Burgundy’s vineyard landscape. The law required equal land division among heirs, leading to fragmented vineyard ownership. Many small growers could no longer compete with larger estates. To survive, they sold grapes to négociants, intermediaries who blended and bottled wines under their own labels.

While some criticized négociants for homogenizing Burgundy’s wines, others praised them for maintaining quality and consistency. Today, many of Burgundy’s top producers continue working with négociants to source grapes and craft their wines.

The Burgundy Wine Classification System

Burgundy classifies its vineyards based on perceived quality, considering factors such as soil, sun exposure, slope, altitude, and historical reputation. The system, first established in 1855 and revised in 2012, ranks vineyards into four categories:

  • Grand Cru: The highest classification, reserved for only 33 prestigious vineyards producing the region’s most exceptional wines.
  • Premier Cru: Over 600 vineyards fall into this second-tier classification, recognized for their outstanding quality and finesse.
  • Village Wines: Representing over 400 vineyards, these wines maintain high quality but lack the prestige of Grand and Premier Cru status.
  • Regional Wines: The entry-level classification, covering over 100 vineyards that produce more accessible and modestly priced wines.

Essential Burgundy Wine Terminology

Understanding Burgundy’s unique terminology enhances appreciation of its wines:

  • Domaine: A winery that produces wine exclusively from grapes grown on its own land.
  • Cru: A term indicating vineyard quality. The highest level is Grand Cru, followed by Premier Cru and Village wines.
  • Terroir: A concept reflecting the unique combination of soil, climate, and topography that shapes a wine’s character.

Conclusion

Burgundy offers a rich, complex world of wine deeply rooted in terroir and history. Its Pinot Noir and Chardonnay define the region’s identity, captivating wine lovers seeking elegant, expressive wines. Whether exploring Grand Cru masterpieces or Village-level gems, Burgundy remains a must-visit destination for any wine enthusiast.

 

Petit Verdot: The Unsung Hero of Bordeaux Blends

Petit Verdot: The Unsung Hero of Bordeaux Blends

When it comes to Bordeaux wines, most enthusiasts recognize the big players like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and even Cabernet Franc. But hidden in the shadows of these giants is Petit Verdot, a dark-skinned grape variety with a unique charm and integral role in some of the world’s most celebrated wines. Known for its full-bodied structure, robust flavors, and remarkable aging potential, Petit Verdot wine offers a fascinating journey into the world of Bordeaux blend grapes and beyond. People do misspell this as Petite Verdot, but the “e” is not required for Petit for this grape name.

Petit Verdot Characteristics

Petit Verdot is a late-ripening grape variety, often the last to be harvested in Bordeaux. Its name, meaning “small green,” reflects its tendency to retain a green hue when unripe. Despite this, when fully ripened, Petit Verdot delivers intense flavors and aromas that make it a powerful component in Bordeaux wine composition. Its small, thick-skinned berries yield wines with deep color, pronounced tannins, and a striking aromatic profile. These attributes contribute significantly to the backbone and complexity of full-bodied red wines.

Petit Verdot’s Role in Bordeaux Wine Regions

In Bordeaux, Petit Verdot thrives primarily in the Left Bank regions such as the Médoc and Graves, where gravelly soils and warm climates allow it to ripen more consistently. Traditionally, Petit Verdot has been used sparingly in Bordeaux blends, typically comprising 1-5% of the mix. This modest blending percentage belies its impact; even small amounts of Petit Verdot can enhance the wine’s structure, deepen its color, and introduce tasting notes of violets, black fruit, and spice. While its role in Bordeaux has diminished due to its unpredictable ripening patterns, modern viticulture techniques are reviving interest in this versatile grape.

Petit Verdot as a Single Varietal

Though historically relegated to blends, Petit Verdot has emerged as a single varietal in New World wine regions, including California, Australia, and Argentina. In these warmer climates, where ripening is more reliable, winemakers are crafting Petit Verdot single varietal wines that showcase its bold character and unique flavor profile. These wines are often richly textured, with concentrated flavors of blackberry, plum, and black cherry, accented by notes of leather, tobacco, and a hint of vanilla from oak aging.

Petit Verdot Flavor Profile

This grape variety from the Pyrénées, long planted primarily in the Médoc, is now grown in the Graves. It ripens late and gives the wine an intense color, along with tannic depth and a powerful aroma with distinctive notes of violet.

Petit Verdot is celebrated for its tasting notes of dark fruit, such as black currant and blackberry, accompanied by floral aromas like violet. On the palate, it delivers a dense, full-bodied experience with firm tannins and refreshing acidity. Secondary notes often include spices like clove and cinnamon, as well as earthy undertones of graphite and leather. Its robust structure and bold flavors make it a standout in both blends and as a varietal wine, offering remarkable aging potential that allows its complex layers to evolve over time.

Petit Verdot in New World Wines

In the New World, Petit Verdot has found a new identity. Regions such as California’s Napa Valley, Australia’s Barossa Valley, and parts of South America have embraced this dark-skinned grape variety. The warmer climates and innovative winemaking techniques in these regions have allowed Petit Verdot to shine as both a blending component and a single varietal. New World Petit Verdot wines are often more fruit-forward, with softer tannins and a slightly higher alcohol content, providing a modern interpretation of this classic Bordeaux grape.

Petit Verdot Viticulture

The cultivation of Petit Verdot requires meticulous attention. As a late-ripening grape variety, it demands a long growing season with warm, sunny days to fully develop its flavors. It thrives in well-drained soils, particularly gravelly terrains that reflect heat and aid in ripening. Despite its challenges, Petit Verdot’s resilience and adaptability have made it a valuable asset for winemakers seeking to add depth and complexity to their wines.

Petit Verdot Food Pairings

The bold and structured nature of this varietal makes it a versatile companion for food. Its firm tannins and vibrant acidity complement rich, hearty dishes. Consider pairing it with:

  • Grilled or roasted meats, such as lamb, beef, or venison.
  • Rich, savory stews or braised dishes.Beef Bourguignon . Stew with red wine ,carrots, onions, garlic, a bouquet garni, and garnished with pearl onions, mushrooms and bacon. French cuisine- regional recipe from Burgundy
  • Hard, aged cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Manchego.Wedge of Machego cheese - creamy straw color with variegated dark gray striped rind
  • Dark chocolate desserts with a hint of fruit.

    clear glasses filled with dark chocolate mousse and sliced strawberries on a gray table

    Brownie and chocolate mascarpone cream served in glass jars. Grey table. Close up view.

For Petit Verdot blends, pairings can be tailored to highlight the supporting varietals, creating a harmonious balance between food and wine.

Historical and Cultural Context

History for this grape dates back centuries, with origins deeply rooted in Bordeaux. Once a dominant grape in the region, its prominence waned as vintners sought more reliable ripening alternatives like Merlot. Despite this, Petit Verdot has endured, celebrated for its ability to add finesse and longevity to blends. Its revival in the New World signifies a growing appreciation for its unique qualities and potential as a standalone varietal.

Two gauchos from Argentina standing holding glasses of dark red wine. Each wears a beret-like hat

Conclusion

Petit Verdot may not command the spotlight like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, but its contributions to the world of wine are indispensable. Whether as a small yet impactful component in a Bordeaux blend or as a bold single varietal in New World wines, Petit Verdot continues to captivate wine enthusiasts with its depth, structure, and character. Its journey from Bordeaux to global acclaim underscores its adaptability and enduring allure, solidifying its place as a cornerstone of full-bodied red wine.

You Might Also Be Interested In:

The Rich Heritage of Left Bank Bordeaux: A Journey Through Terroir

Bordeaux: Right Bank; Native Home to Merlot

Varietals to Know: Cabernet Sauvignon

Varietals to Know: Merlot

Old World vs. New World Wines

 

Touraine: The Gateway to Loire Valley Wines

Touraine: The Gateway to Loire Valley Wines

Located in the heart of the Loire Valley, the Touraine wine region is a hub of vibrant winemaking traditions and diverse styles. Known as the “Garden of France,” this picturesque region is famous for its rolling vineyards, historic châteaux, and a wine portfolio that caters to a wide range of palates. Let’s dive into what makes Touraine a must-know destination for wine lovers.


Location, Climate, and Terroir

map of the sub-wine-regions of the Loire

Touraine stretches along the Loire River (see above in the Touraine wine region map) and its tributaries, covering a large area that includes the city of Tours. Its central location in the Loire Valley positions it as a bridge between the region’s eastern and western wine styles.

The climate in Touraine is predominantly temperate, with maritime influences from the Atlantic blending with continental traits as you move inland. This balance creates ideal conditions for grape growing. Summers are warm but not overly hot, and winters are mild, with enough rainfall throughout the year to maintain vineyard health.

Touraine’s terroir is equally diverse. The region’s soils range from flinty clay (known locally as “perruches”) to sandy gravel and limestone-rich tuffeau. These varied soils contribute to the complexity of the wines and allow a wide array of grape varieties to thrive.


Grape Varietals

Touraine’s vineyards are home to a mix of classic Loire Valley grapes and lesser-known treasures:

  • White Varietals:
    • Sauvignon Blanc: The star white grape of Touraine, known for its zesty acidity and vibrant citrus and green apple notes.
    • Chenin Blanc: Valued for its versatility, Chenin Blanc produces everything from dry whites to luscious sweet wines.
  • Red Varietals:
    • Cabernet Franc: A cornerstone of the region’s reds, delivering wines with aromas of red berries and herbal undertones.
    • Gamay: Used for light, fruit-forward reds that are perfect for casual sipping.
    • CĂ´t (Malbec): Though lesser-known, this varietal adds structure and richness to some of the region’s blends.
  • RosĂ© Varietals:
    • A blend of Grolleau, Gamay, and Cabernet Franc often defines Touraine’s refreshing and aromatic rosĂ© wines.

Styles of Wine

Touraine’s winemakers produce an impressive variety of wine styles that reflect the region’s diverse terroir and climate:

White Wines

Touraine Sauvignon Blanc dominates the whites, offering crisp, mineral-driven wines with flavors of citrus, green apple, and herbs. Chenin Blanc-based whites can range from dry and zippy to sweet and luscious, with honeyed and floral notes.

Red Wines

Cabernet Franc leads the way in reds, producing medium-bodied wines with bright acidity and earthy, peppery nuances. Gamay-based reds are lighter and fruitier, making them ideal for early drinking.

Rosé Wines

Touraine’s rosés are vibrant and aromatic, with notes of red berries and floral hints. These wines are perfect for warm-weather sipping.

Sparkling Wines

Crémant de Loire, a sparkling wine made in the traditional method, showcases the region’s ability to craft elegant and refreshing bubbly. These wines often feature Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Franc.


Unique Terminology

Touraine has its own set of terms and designations that reflect its winemaking heritage:

  • Touraine AOC: This broad appellation covers a variety of wines, from crisp Sauvignon Blancs to robust reds and aromatic rosĂ©s.
  • Tuffeau: A type of limestone found in the Loire Valley, tuffeau not only shapes the region’s vineyards but also its architecture, including the iconic châteaux and wine caves.

The Loing river and old houses in Nemours, in Seine et Marne, in France. La rivière du Loing et des anciennes maisons, à Nemours, en Seine et Marne, en France. La rivière du Loing et des anciennes maisons, à Nemours, en Seine et Marne, en France

  • Perruches: Flinty clay soils that are prized for their ability to impart minerality and complexity to the wines.

 


Conclusion

Touraine is a region that embodies the essence of the Loire Valley—diverse, approachable, and rich in tradition. Whether you’re a fan of crisp Sauvignon Blanc, earthy Cabernet Franc, or elegant sparkling wines, Touraine has something to offer. Its varied terroir, combined with a long history of winemaking, ensures that every bottle tells a unique story. So, next time you’re exploring wines from the Loire, let Touraine transport you to the heart of this beautiful region.

Sauvignon Blanc: A Global Favorite with Zesty Charm

Sauvignon Blanc: A Global Favorite with Zesty Charm

When it comes to white wine varietals, Sauvignon Blanc stands out as a crowd-pleaser. Known for its vibrant acidity and aromatic intensity, this grape has earned a prominent place in the hearts of wine enthusiasts worldwide. Whether you’re enjoying a crisp glass of Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc on a sunny patio or pairing it with a subtle glass of French Sancerre with a flavorful meal, Sauvignon Blanc delivers a refreshing experience. Let’s explore what makes this varietal so exceptional.


Sauvignon Blanc’s Flavor Profile: Bright, Bold, and Unmistakable

The signature flavor profile of Sauvignon Blanc is as lively as it is varied. Aromas leap from the glass, offering a bouquet of lime, green apple, and gooseberry, often accompanied by herbal notes like freshly cut grass or bell pepper. In warmer climates, you might detect tropical hints of passionfruit or pineapple.

On the palate, Sauvignon Blanc typically delivers zesty acidity that makes your mouth water. Flavors range from citrus (think grapefruit and lemon) to stone fruits like white peach, with a minerality that often evokes wet stones or flint. Some expressions, particularly those aged in oak, add creaminess and notes of vanilla or toast, offering a unique twist on the varietal.


Regional Highlights: Sauvignon Blanc Around the World

Sauvignon Blanc’s adaptability allows it to thrive in a variety of climates and soils, leading to distinctive regional expressions:

France: The Loire Valley and Bordeaux

The Loire Valley is Sauvignon Blanc’s spiritual home, producing iconic wines from Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé. These wines are known for their high acidity, pronounced minerality, and subtle smoky notes. In Bordeaux, Sauvignon Blanc is often blended with Sémillon to create elegant dry whites and luscious dessert wines, like Sauternes.

New Zealand: Marlborough

New Zealand’s Marlborough region has redefined Sauvignon Blanc for a new generation. Here, the grape produces intensely aromatic wines with explosive flavors of passionfruit, lime, and elderflower. These wines are typically unoaked, allowing the varietal’s natural vibrancy to shine.

United States: California

California’s Sauvignon Blancs vary widely, with some producers leaning into the grape’s crisp, citrusy character, while others opt for oak aging to create a richer style often labeled as “FumĂ© Blanc.” Napa Valley and Sonoma are key regions to explore.

Chile and South Africa

Chile’s cool-climate regions, like Casablanca Valley, produce Sauvignon Blancs with a balance of citrus and herbal notes. In South Africa, the varietal thrives in areas like Stellenbosch, delivering wines with tropical fruit flavors and refreshing acidity.


Food Pairings: The Perfect Companion

Sauvignon Blanc’s versatility extends to the dining table, where its bright acidity and bold flavors make it an ideal partner for a wide range of dishes. Here are some standout pairings:

  • Seafood: Think oysters on the half shell, shrimp ceviche, or grilled white fish with a squeeze of lemon. The wine’s acidity complements the brininess and freshness of seafood.

White bowl filled with mussels and a mix of seafood

  • Herb-Driven Dishes: Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with herbaceous dishes like goat cheese and basil tart, pesto pasta, or roasted chicken with tarragon.

Classic italian pasta pesto with pine nuts, pound garlic, basil leaves, hard parmesan cheese and extra-vitgin olive oil. Mediterranean pesto sauce and tagliatelle. Healthy homemade vegetarian. Herbal dish

  • Vegetarian Options: Salads with tangy vinaigrette, asparagus, or dishes featuring artichokes, which can be tricky to pair with other wines, shine alongside this varietal.

Homemade Lemon and Herb Rotisserie Chicken on a Plate, side view. Close-up.

  • Spicy Foods: Its crispness and lower alcohol content can handle the heat of Thai curries or spicy Mexican dishes without overwhelming the palate.

Mexican food table scene. Top view on a white wood background. Tacos, burrito plate, nachos, enchiladas, tortilla soup and salad.          Thai Food Red Curry Chicken with bamboo Shoot and eggplant.


Historical and Cultural Context

Sauvignon Blanc’s history is as rich as its flavor. The grape originated in France, where it has been cultivated for centuries. Its name derives from the French words “sauvage” (wild) and “blanc” (white), referencing its origins as a wild-growing vine. In the 18th century, Sauvignon Blanc crossed with Cabernet Franc to give us the beloved Cabernet Sauvignon.

The varietal gained international fame in the 20th century, particularly after New Zealand’s Marlborough region burst onto the scene in the 1980s. Today, Sauvignon Blanc is grown in nearly every major wine-producing country, beloved for its ability to reflect its terroir while remaining approachable and vibrant.


Conclusion: A Varietal for All Seasons

Sauvignon Blanc is a wine that embodies versatility, vibrancy, and global appeal. Its ability to adapt to different climates and winemaking styles ensures there’s a bottle for every occasion and palate. Whether you’re savoring a mineral-driven Sancerre, a tropical Marlborough delight, or an oak-aged Fumé Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc invites you to explore its many facets. So, next time you’re selecting a wine, let this zesty varietal lead the way to a refreshing and flavorful experience.

White Wine Pan Sauce: Elevate Your Cooking with Elegance

White Wine Pan Sauce: Elevate Your Cooking with Elegance

A great pan sauce is the secret weapon of every home cook, transforming simple dishes into restaurant-quality meals. Whether you’re searing chicken, pork, or seafood, a luscious white wine pan sauce adds depth, brightness, and a touch of sophistication. Let’s dive into its origins, master the technique, and bring bold flavors to your table.

The History of Pan Sauces: From French Cuisine to Your Kitchen

Did you know pan sauces have their roots in classic French cuisine? Chefs in the 18th and 19th centuries perfected the art of deglazing pans with wine and stock to create deeply flavorful sauces. The French culinary philosophy emphasizes using every bit of flavor, especially the fond—those delicious browned bits left behind after searing meat.

Over time, this technique became a staple in kitchens worldwide. From the buttery sauces of Parisian bistros to the light, citrusy reductions in Mediterranean cooking, pan sauces have evolved into a versatile way to enhance any dish. And when it comes to white wine pan sauce, the balance of acidity and richness makes it an all-star in modern cooking.

 

How to Make a White Wine Pan Sauce at Home

Creating a white wine pan sauce is simple and requires just a few key ingredients. With the right technique, you’ll add layers of flavor to any meal in minutes.

Ingredients:

  • 1-2 Boneless Chicken Breasts (since mine was thick, I used one breast, but cut into two layers – not halves)
  • 1 bunch parsley
  • 1 lemon
  • 1 cup flour
  • 1/2 white wine
  • 1/2 cup chicken stock
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp oil
  • Salt
  • Pepper

 

Directions:

  1. Place flour, salt and pepper into the plastic baggie and mix the conents.
  2. Dredge the Chicken Cutlets in the bag of flour and set aside, dusting off any excess flour.
  3. Set skillet over Medium – Medium High heat. Add oil
  4. Cook the cutlets so they sizzle – but watch so they don’t burn. They should brown in 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and set in your oven or warmer at 200 degrees to keep warm.
  5. To the same empty skillet, add the wine to the skillet. Scrape the bottom of the pan to release the fond and all the tasty bits. Continue until the wine is reduced in half – just a minute or so.
  6. Add the chicken stock and any of the meat juices. Cook down and thicken another 2-3 minutes.
  7. Trun off the burner, removing the skillet from heat.
  8. Stir in the butter. Cook, swirling until the butter is melted.
  9. Add the lemon juice and chopped fresh parsley, reserving some of the herbs for final garnish.
  10. Season to taste.
  11. Pour the sauce over the cutlets and garnish with remaining parsley.

A beautifully elevated dish!

Fun Facts About White Wine in Cooking

  • French Cuisine: White wine-based sauces like beurre blanc are a staple in classic French cooking.
  • Italian Flavors: Many Italian seafood dishes rely on white wine reductions for added depth.
  • German Influence: Riesling-based sauces provide a touch of sweetness, balancing acidity.

Wherever you cook, a white wine pan sauce is a universal way to elevate flavors and impress your guests.

 


 

Breaded Chicken cutlets served over fresh pasta with a White Wine Pan Sauce served with a glass of Roero Arneis

White Wine Pan Sauce with Chicken Cutlets

Anne Kjellgren @ Food Wine and Flavor
Use leftover wine or a beautiful new bottle to create this quick, classic, tasty sauce
No ratings yet
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, French
Servings 2
Calories 536 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Plastic Bag If you wish to dredge the chicken
  • 1 Skillet

Ingredients
  

  • 1-2 Boneless Chicken Breasts Since mine was thick, I cut into two layers, not halves
  • 1 bunch Parsley
  • 1 Lemon
  • 1 cup Flour
  • 1/2 cup White Wine
  • 1/2 cup Chicken Stock
  • 2 tbsp Butter
  • 1 tbsp Oil
  • Salt
  • Fresh Ground Pepper

Instructions
 

  • Place flour, salt and pepper into the plastic baggie and mix the conents.
  • Dredge the Chicken Cutlets in the bag of flour and set aside, dusting off any excess flour.
  • Set skillet over Medium - Medium High heat. Add oil
  • Cook the cutlets so they sizzle - but watch so they don't burn. They should brown in 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and set in your oven or warmer at 200 degrees to keep warm.
  • To the same empty skillet, add the wine to the skillet. Scrape the bottom of the pan to release the fond and all the tasty bits. Continue until the wine is reduced in half - just a minute or so.
  • Add the chicken stock and any of the meat juices. Cook down and thicken another 2-3 minutes.
  • Trun off the burner, removing the skillet from heat.
  • Stir in the butter. Cook, swirling until the butter is melted.
  • Add the lemon juice and chopped fresh parsley, reserving some of the herbs for final garnish.
  • Season to taste.
  • Pour the sauce over the cutlets and garnish with remaining parsley.

Notes

I used an Italian Roero Arenis white wine to make this pan sauce as well as to serve it with. Any nice acidic wine would do nicely with this sauce: Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Dry Riesling or even a nice clean Chardonnay.
I usually add veggies to this dish - particularly some lovely bright, green vegetables, like asparagus, broccoli, etc. 
Overall, this makes a fantastic refrigerator clean-out dish when you want something quick and nourishing but not complicated at all! 

Nutrition

Calories: 536kcalCarbohydrates: 53gProtein: 21gFat: 21gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 68mgSodium: 262mgPotassium: 543mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 2769IUVitamin C: 39mgCalcium: 62mgIron: 5mg
Keyword Chicken, Healthy, Light, Sauce, Wine
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Share Your White Wine Pan Sauce Creations

What’s your favorite way to use white wine in cooking? Whether you stick to a classic reduction or experiment with unique flavors, we’d love to hear about it in the comments.