Domaine Jean-Claude Bachelet et Fils

Benoît and Jean-Baptiste Bachelet, both in their early twenties, recently took over their family domaine from their father, Jean-Claude. The estate, based in Gamay, a hamlet of Saint-Aubin, had remained relatively anonymous due to Jean-Claude’s reluctance to receive critics. He began domaine bottling in the 1970s.

The brothers have no such apprehensions and are proud to showcase the wines they are producing from their outstanding holdings. Some immediate changes were made after the transition. The sulfur levels were decreased, and the duration the wines spent in barrel was reduced from 2 years to 18 months. New oak is used very judiciously by the brothers, and, as a result, the wines now released by the domaine are pure and terroir-driven.

The domaine’s holdings consist mainly of some of the best terroirs in Saint-Aubin, as well as vineyards in the communes of Chassagne-Montrachet and Puligny-Montrachet. The domaine also owns a very small plot of Bienvenues-Bâtard-Montrachet.

Domaine Jean-Claude Bachelet et Fils has a rich history dating back to the 17th century. They own a modest 9 hectares across the less fashionable, but underrated village of Saint-Aubin, with additional parcels in Chassagne-Montrachet and Puligny-Montrachet.

The domaine produces both red and white Burgundy wines, with a focus on balance, complexity, and deliciousness. The brothers’ commitment to conscientious care of their vineyards and sustainable agriculture is paying dividends as the quality of their wine soars.

Their wines are known for their purity and expression of terroir, with minimal intervention in the winemaking process. The use of new oak is judicious, allowing the character of the fruit and the unique qualities of each vineyard site to shine through.

Under the leadership of Benoît and Jean-Baptiste, Domaine Jean-Claude Bachelet et Fils continues to uphold the family’s tradition of producing exceptional Burgundy wines that reflect the unique character of their vineyards.