Vines: Approximately 30 years old on average
Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
Plot: Half a hectare planted on the most limestone-rich section of the estate
Production: Around 3,000 bottles per vintage
This small corner of Clos de la Perrière, located on the coldest and most limestone-rich part of the estate, was replanted with Chardonnay in 1990 when Bénigne Joliet took over. An unconventional choice for this area, famed for its Pinot Noir terroirs. However, delving into the estate’s archives reveals that white wine production here dates back to the time of the monks. This half-hectare plot, situated at the foot of the combes on a less clay-heavy soil, is perfectly suited to white grape varietals, particularly Chardonnay.
“The vines have been here for 900 years; we are merely passing through. Respect and precision are the guiding principles that drive us every day, at every moment. Respect for the environment, the soil, and the terroir is the foundation for aromas and complexity—a heritage to be preserved. Respect for the wine itself, because there are no great wines without great grapes.”
— Bénigne Joliet
Chardonnay on Pinot Noir terroir ? A true explosion on the palate. The rare Premier Cru whites of the Côte de Nuits each cultivate their own singularity; no two are alike. This wine expresses a distinctive terroir through a noble and powerful grape variety. The tasting reveals notes of white fruits, exotic fruits, and spices, sometimes reminiscent of the Pinot Noir characteristics of the region. Today, the white wines of Domaine Joliet rival the finest wines of this prestigious region.
On the table, this wine pairs beautifully with white meats and enhances dishes like prawns, scallops, and other fine shellfish. However, the winemaker will insist that pan-seared sweetbreads are the ultimate match for this wine. Let it age, and it will perfectly complement foie gras. If you’re impatient, its fruitier profile makes it an excellent choice for aperitifs.
“For me, 2019 is a great vintage – there’s freshness but also structure. We had less quantity than in 2018 due to significant challenges with powdery mildew – it was a battle. By comparison, 2018 is marked more by the heat and power of the vintage, where maintaining freshness was key. Both were relatively easy vintages to work in the vines – the whites of 2019 and the reds of 2018 will be bottled in November 2020.”
« That’s a nicely pure and attractive fruit aroma – a proper invitation, faintly cushioned with a modest oak. Round – open, plenty of energy, plenty of oak for sure – but there is a lovely drive and finishing energy. Long. For keeping for the oak to fade but the shape and energy is lovely here. »
« A narrower, more mineral nose, less direct oak on show here. This is mouth-filling and indeed has very good freshness – the balance is lovely here. A wide and intensely finishing, part saline, a awe of flavour – that’s a big impressive finish with a similar oak style to the 2019. Excellent, and still for the patient. »