Wine, a drink that transcends time and borders, often carries with it a story that unfolds through generations. In the heart of the Côte Chalonnaise region lies Rully, a hidden gem in Burgundy, France. It is here, in this picturesque corner of the world, that the Jacqueson family has been crafting exceptional wines for decades. This essay explores the captivating journey of Domaine Jacqueson, its rich history, winemaking philosophy, and the exquisite Rully 1er Cru La Pucelle vintage that showcases their commitment to excellence.
The Legacy of Henri Jacqueson
The story of Domaine Jacqueson is steeped in tradition and family heritage. Each year, Henri, the patriarch of the family, would invite you into the cellar, drawing a pipette of his marvelous, green-tinted white wine from a barrel. With bated breath, he would listen as you extolled the virtues of this fine Chardonnay, only to reveal with a grin that it was, in fact, an Aligoté. This delightful tradition spoke volumes about the Jacqueson family’s passion for winemaking and their ability to create exceptional wines that could easily be mistaken for Burgundy’s most renowned Chardonnays.
The Jacqueson family, originally of Welsh origin, has a storied history in Rully, dating back to the mid-1700s when land in the region was granted to them by Marguerite, Duchess of Burgundy. It was Henri who, in 1947, planted the first vines on this ancestral land. In doing so, he played a pivotal role in elevating the reputation of the commune of Rully, which had its origins shrouded in obscurity due to the devastating effects of the Great War. By the 1940s, the male population of the commune had been decimated, and viticulture had nearly disappeared. Henri’s dedication and vision helped breathe new life into this historical winegrowing region.
Today, Henri Jacqueson, now in his mid-eighties, can take pride in the legacy he has built. His son, Paul, carries on the family tradition, overseeing the domaine with meticulous care and unwavering attention to detail. Paul is joined by his daughter, Marie, in continuing the family’s winemaking legacy, ensuring that the wines of Domaine Jacqueson remain synonymous with excellence.
Winemaking Philosophy: Craftsmanship and Dedication
Domaine Jacqueson stands out in Rully for its commitment to traditional winemaking practices and a profound respect for the land. The estate encompasses 13 hectares of vineyards, with vine ages averaging over 30 years, some dating back to the initial plantings by Henri in 1947. The Jacqueson family practices lutte raisonnée, a sustainable vineyard management approach that emphasizes minimal intervention and sustainable farming practices. This commitment to environmentally conscious farming ensures that the vineyards thrive while respecting the delicate balance of nature.
One of the distinctive features of Domaine Jacqueson is their dedication to manual labor, particularly hand-picking. This labor-intensive approach is a testament to their commitment to quality. Hand-picking allows for careful selection of grapes, ensuring that only the finest fruit makes its way into the winemaking process.
Yields at Domaine Jacqueson are intentionally low, with an average of around 35 hectoliters per hectare (hl/ha). This deliberate limitation ensures that the vines’ energy is concentrated on producing high-quality grapes. The wines of Domaine Jacqueson also see a relatively modest 20-25% new oak, allowing the purity of the fruit and the terroir to shine through.
Flagship Vineyards: Gresigny and Les Cloux
Two vineyards stand as the crown jewels of Domaine Jacqueson: the 1er Crus Gresigny for white wines and Les Cloux for red wines. These vineyards represent the epitome of the estate’s winemaking prowess and the exceptional terroir of Rully.
The white wines from Gresigny are characterized by their finesse and minerality. The terroir imparts a distinct sense of place to these wines, with the clay-limestone soil and ideal exposure creating an environment in which Chardonnay thrives. These whites are a harmonious blend of elegance and purity, reflecting the meticulous care with which they are crafted.
Les Cloux, on the other hand, is the source of delicate and ethereal red wines. These wines are a revelation, offering finely perfumed notes of raspberry and cherries. The terroir of Les Cloux lends complexity and depth to the reds, resulting in wines that are a true testament to the potential of Pinot Noir in Rully.
Global Recognition: A Place on Michelin Starred Tables
The reputation of Domaine Jacqueson extends far beyond the borders of Rully. Their wines are revered in France and throughout the world, earning a place on the wine lists of many Michelin-starred restaurants. This global recognition is a testament to the quality and craftsmanship that define the wines of Domaine Jacqueson.
Exploring Rully’s Terroir
Rully, situated in the Côte Chalonnaise region of Burgundy, is a region of subtle yet significant terroir variations. These differences arise from variations in soil composition, exposure to sunlight, and altitude. The complex interplay of these factors creates wines that are as diverse as they are captivating.
The vineyards of Rully are located at heights ranging from 230 to 300 meters above sea level. These hill slopes offer ideal conditions for vine cultivation, allowing the wines to compete with the best offerings from the neighboring Côte de Beaune. The Chardonnay grape, the star of white Burgundy wines, finds a natural home in the clay-limestone soils of Rully, contributing to the region’s reputation for producing exceptional white wines.
Rully 1er Cru La Pucelle: A Symphony of Flavors
The wine’s visual allure is undeniable, with a color that hints at its vibrancy and purity. Each glass of the 2019 Rully 1er Cru La Pucelle is a testament to the artistry of the Jacqueson family, who have mastered the delicate dance of winemaking.
The wine invites you to embark on a sensory journey, with each sip offering a unique expression of Rully’s terroir. Subtle differences in soil, exposure, and altitude converge to create a wine that is a true reflection of its origin. This terroir expression is a hallmark of Domaine Jacqueson’s winemaking philosophy.
A Heritage of Excellence
Domaine Jacqueson’s journey is one of unwavering dedication to craftsmanship, a profound connection to the land, and a commitment to quality that spans generations. From Henri’s playful cellar traditions to Paul and Marie’s meticulous winemaking, the Jacqueson family has etched their name into the annals of Rully’s winemaking history.
As Domaine Jacqueson continues to produce exceptional wines that grace the tables of Michelin-starred restaurants around the world, their story serves as an inspiration to wine enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike. It is a story of tradition, craftsmanship, and an unyielding pursuit of excellence—a story that reminds us of the timeless beauty and complexity found in each glass of fine wine.
