Domaine Prieuré-Roch: The Punk Rock Aristocrat

In the hallowed, often stuffy halls of Burgundy, Domaine Prieuré-Roch is the ultimate anomaly. It is a winery with the pedigree of royalty and the soul of a rebel. Founded in 1988 by the late Henry-Frédéric Roch, this estate has risen to become one of the most cult-followed producers on the planet, creating wines that are wild, electric, and utterly uncompromising.

The Bloodline To understand Prieuré-Roch, you must look at the family tree. Henry-Frédéric Roch was not just any winemaker; he was the grandson of Henry Leroy and the nephew of Lalou Bize-Leroy. For decades, he served as the co-director of the most famous winery in the world, Domaine de la Romanée-Conti (DRC). Yet, despite sitting on the throne of Burgundian tradition, Roch was a free spirit—often seen with his signature ponytail and sunglasses—who wanted to make wine that broke free from convention.

The Philosophy: Nature is Boss Long before “Natural Wine” was a trend, Roch was practicing it with a level of rigor that bordered on obsession. His philosophy was simple: the winemaker should do nothing to mask the terroir. This means organic farming in the vineyards, but in the cellar, it means zero intervention. No chaptalization (adding sugar), no filtration, no fining, and often no added sulfur. Roch believed that sulfur “anesthetized” the wine, stripping it of its life force.

The Signature: 100% Whole Cluster The defining characteristic of a Prieuré-Roch wine is the use of the stem. While many Burgundians de-stem their grapes to avoid green flavors, Roch fermented 100% whole clusters (stems and all). He believed the stem was the channel for the vine’s energy. This technique gives the wines their signature, polarized style: a nose that explodes with crushed roses, green herbs, exotic spices, and a wild, musky energy.

The Legacy Based in Nuits-Saint-Georges (specifically Premeaux-Prissey), the estate owns some truly legendary terroir, including the monopole Clos des Corvées and holdings in Clos de Bèze. Since Henry-Frédéric’s passing in 2018, the team has fiercely protected his vision. Drinking a bottle of Prieuré-Roch is not like drinking a polished, modern Burgundy. It is a raw, vibrating experience—a direct line to the soil, unfiltered and untamed.

Domaine Lucien Le Moine, established in 1999 by Mounir and Rotem Saouma, is a distinguished micro-négociant based in Beaune, Burgundy. The name “Lucien Le Moine” reflects a blend of tradition and personal history: “Lucien” is a classic French name, while “Le Moine” translates to “The Monk,” nodding to Mounir’s early winemaking experiences in a Trappist monastery.

Founders’ Background

Mounir Saouma’s journey into winemaking began in the late 1980s when he visited a Trappist monastery in the Middle East. During this time, he worked in the monastery’s vineyards, gaining foundational knowledge in viticulture and winemaking. Rotem, coming from a cheese-making family, studied agriculture in Dijon and, after receiving a national prize from the French Academy of Agriculture for her study of the Côte d’Or, dedicated herself fully to wine.

Philosophy and Approach

Le Moine is renowned for its meticulous and artisanal approach to winemaking. Operating as a two-person team, Mounir and Rotem handle every aspect of production by hand, emphasizing purity and a true expression of terroir. Their commitment is to produce wines of exceptional purity, aiming to make each wine an accurate and focused expression of its origin, that unique quality the French call “terroir.”

Wine Portfolio

Specializing exclusively in Premier and Grand Cru wines, Lucien Le Moine offers a diverse array of Burgundy’s most esteemed appellations. Their portfolio includes both red and white wines, crafted from Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes, respectively. Notable wines from their collection encompass:

• Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru: A distinguished red wine from the Côte de Nuits, celebrated for its depth and complexity.
• Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru: A prestigious white wine from the Côte de Beaune, known for its elegance and aging potential.
• Pommard 1er Cru: A bold and structured Pinot Noir from the Côte de Beaune, offering intense fruit, spice, and excellent aging potential.

Each wine is produced in limited quantities, reflecting the domaine’s dedication to quality over volume.

Reputation and Recognition

Over two decades, Lucien Le Moine has become one of the most talked-about Burgundy producers, making some of the most sought-after wines from the region. Their wines are highly regarded for their purity, precision, and faithful representation of Burgundy’s diverse terroirs.

Domaine Lucien Le Moine stands as a beacon of artisanal winemaking in Burgundy. Through their unwavering dedication to traditional methods and their profound respect for the land, Mounir and Rotem Saouma have crafted a legacy of exceptional wines that capture the essence of Burgundy’s most revered vineyards.

Pont des Arts Yan Pei-Ming Collection

The Pont des Arts Yan Pei-Ming Collection is a remarkable fusion of fine art and exceptional winemaking, embodying the essence of French “Art de Vivre.” Launched in 2017, this collection showcases the collaboration between Pont des Arts and the renowned Chinese artist Yan Pei-Ming, resulting in a series of wines that are as visually captivating as they are palate-pleasing.

The Artist: Yan Pei-Ming

Born in Shanghai in 1960, Yan Pei-Ming relocated to France at the age of 19. He honed his artistic skills at the École des Beaux-Arts de Dijon, graduating in 1986. Yan Pei-Ming is celebrated for his monumental portraits, characterized by dynamic brushwork and a distinctive monochromatic palette. His technique involves the use of large, mop-sized brushes, allowing for rapid, expressive strokes that convey profound emotion and depth. Residing and working in Dijon, Burgundy, Yan Pei-Ming’s art seamlessly bridges Eastern and Western cultural narratives.

The Collection

The Yan Pei-Ming Collection by Pont des Arts features a curated selection of wines adorned with the artist’s compelling works. Each bottle serves as a canvas, presenting art that reflects the wine’s character and origin. The collection includes:

• Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru – Abbaye de Morgeot: Crafted in collaboration with esteemed Burgundy winemaker Etienne de Montille, this white wine exemplifies the rich terroir of Chassagne-Montrachet.
• Corton Grand Cru Les Maréchaudes: Another partnership with Etienne de Montille, this red wine offers a profound expression of the Corton hillside’s esteemed vineyards.
• Saint-Émilion Grand Cru: A Bordeaux blend that harmoniously balances Merlot and Cabernet Franc, delivering a wine of elegance and depth.
• Pomerol Cuvée Spéciale: Sourced from the prestigious Pomerol appellation, this wine is rich and decadent, with notes of dark cherry, plum, and spice, complemented by soft tannins.

The Collaboration

This collection signifies a harmonious blend of art and wine, with each bottle encapsulating the passion and expertise of both the artist and the winemakers. The partnership with Etienne de Montille, a revered figure in Burgundy winemaking, ensures that the wines meet the highest standards of quality and authenticity. Additionally, the collection introduced Pont des Arts’ inaugural Scotch whisky, a unique 41-Year-Old Single Malt, developed in collaboration with the iconic Glenglassaugh distillery.

Savoir-Faire

Every element of the Yan Pei-Ming Collection is meticulously crafted in France, embodying the French “Art de Vivre.” From the selection of premium terroirs to the bespoke lacquered wood casing, the collection reflects a commitment to excellence and artistry. The wines not only offer exceptional tasting experiences but also serve as collectible art pieces, making them a unique addition to any connoisseur’s collection.

In essence, the Pont des Arts Yan Pei-Ming Collection stands as a testament to the seamless integration of visual art and viticulture, offering enthusiasts an opportunity to indulge in both worlds simultaneously.

A Vision of Modern Meursault

Domaine François Mikulski is one of the most exciting and sought-after producers in Meursault, crafting wines that perfectly balance purity, precision, and terroir expression. Since its founding in 1992, the estate has gained a cult following among Burgundy enthusiasts for its vibrant, mineral-driven Chardonnay that showcases the true essence of Meursault, without excessive oak influence.

A Legacy of Passion and Innovation

François Mikulski, of Polish descent, inherited his passion for winemaking from his uncle Pierre Boillot, who cultivated vines in Meursault for decades. Inspired by his deep respect for tradition and his commitment to innovation, Mikulski established his own estate with a clear philosophy: producing wines of finesse, elegance, and terroir-driven character.

From the beginning, Mikulski has taken a non-interventionist approach, focusing on organic viticulture, meticulous vineyard management, and minimal use of new oak to allow the terroir to shine. The result is wines that are lively, precise, and age-worthy, with a signature freshness and minerality that sets them apart from more traditional, oak-dominant Meursaults.

Exceptional Terroir in the Heart of Meursault

The domaine cultivates 9 hectares of prime vineyard sites, including some of the most prestigious Premier Cru and village-level parcels in Meursault. Mikulski’s holdings include:

• Meursault 1er Cru Les Charmes – A benchmark for the appellation, offering richness and depth with a refined mineral core.
• Meursault 1er Cru Genevrières – A more floral and delicate expression, known for its finesse and aging potential.
• Meursault 1er Cru Poruzots – Bold and structured, with intense concentration and complexity.
• Meursault Village – A superb introduction to Mikulski’s style, balancing energy, freshness, and classic Meursault richness.

Additionally, the domaine produces limited quantities of Puligny-Montrachet, Bourgogne Blanc, and Bourgogne Aligoté, each reflecting the same dedication to purity and expression.

Winemaking Philosophy – A Purist’s Approach

Mikulski’s winemaking stands out for its minimal intervention philosophy, emphasizing the natural expression of the vineyard. Key elements of his approach include:

• Organic and sustainable viticulture, with no herbicides or pesticides.
• Manual harvesting, ensuring only the finest grapes are selected.
• Wild yeast fermentation, preserving the unique character of each terroir.
• Low intervention in the cellar, allowing the wines to develop naturally.
• Limited use of new oak (typically 15-20%), ensuring balance and avoiding excessive wood influence.

The result? Pure, elegant, and deeply expressive wines that reflect the vintage and terroir with stunning precision.

The Mikulski Signature – A New Style of Meursault

Unlike many traditional Meursault producers who focus on opulence and heavy oak, Mikulski has pioneered a more refined and mineral-driven style. His wines are characterized by:

• Vibrant acidity and freshness, making them more structured and age-worthy.
• Precise minerality, showcasing the limestone-rich soils of Meursault.
• Elegant texture and balance, ensuring approachability while maintaining depth.

This style has made Mikulski a favorite among sommeliers, collectors, and Burgundy purists, offering an exciting contrast to more traditional, buttery Meursaults.

A Rising Star in Burgundy

Over the past three decades, François Mikulski has secured his place among Meursault’s top producers, alongside legendary names like Coche-Dury, Roulot, and Comtes Lafon. His wines consistently receive critical acclaim, with frequent 95+ point scores from Wine Advocate, Vinous, and Burghound.

Why Choose Mikulski?

If you’re looking for Meursault with elegance, purity, and aging potential, Mikulski’s wines are a must-have for any serious collector. Whether enjoying now or cellaring for future greatness, each bottle tells the story of passion, precision, and an unwavering commitment to terroir.

Domaine François Mikulski – The Future of Meursault, Rooted in Tradition.

Domaine Billaud-Simon is one of the most revered names in Chablis, producing wines that embody the purity, precision, and minerality that have made this region famous. Established in 1815, the estate has a long-standing reputation for crafting some of the finest expressions of Chardonnay, showcasing the unique terroir of Chablis’ limestone-rich soils.

Heritage and Terroir

For over 200 years, Billaud-Simon has been dedicated to expressing the essence of Chablis’ Kimmeridgian soils, which give the wines their signature flinty minerality and vibrant acidity. The domaine owns an impressive array of vineyards, including Premier Cru and Grand Cru parcels, such as Les Clos, Vaudésir, and Blanchot—some of the most prestigious sites in Chablis.

Winemaking Philosophy

The estate follows a minimal intervention approach, allowing the terroir to shine through. Cold fermentation and stainless steel aging preserve the purity of the fruit, while limited oak aging in select cuvées adds complexity without overpowering the wine’s freshness. The result is a collection of wines known for their laser-sharp acidity, elegant structure, and remarkable aging potential.

Wines of Domaine Billaud-Simon

From the classic Chablis to the highly sought-after Grand Cru bottlings, Billaud-Simon produces wines with remarkable depth, precision, and finesse. Notes of citrus, green apple, white flowers, and wet stone are hallmarks of the domaine’s style, with a crisp, saline-driven finish that makes them perfect for seafood, oysters, and fine gastronomy.

With a commitment to tradition and innovation, Domaine Billaud-Simon continues to define the gold standard of Chablis, delivering wines that captivate both enthusiasts and collectors alike.

Domaine Perrot-Minot: A Legacy of Burgundian Excellence and Precision

Nestled in the heart of the Côte de Nuits, in the prestigious village of Morey-Saint-Denis, Domaine Perrot-Minot stands as a beacon of quality, precision, and terroir-driven winemaking. Over the past three decades, under the dynamic leadership of Christophe Perrot-Minot, this family estate has risen to become one of Burgundy’s most celebrated and sought-after producers. The domaine is renowned for its strikingly pure, elegant, and intensely flavored wines that masterfully articulate the nuances of their exceptional vineyard sites.

A Storied History Rooted in Burgundy’s Soil

The origins of Domaine Perrot-Minot trace back to the mid-19th century, through the union of the Sigaut family in Chambolle-Musigny and the Morizot family in Morey-Saint-Denis. The domaine began to take its modern shape in the early 20th century under the guidance of Amédée and Armand Merme. In 1963, a pivotal marriage between Marie-France Merme, Armand’s daughter, and Henri Perrot-Minot officially created the entity known today as Domaine Perrot-Minot.

While the domaine has a long history, its ascent to the upper echelon of Burgundy producers is largely attributed to their son, Christophe Perrot-Minot, who took the reins in 1993. Previously a successful wine broker, Christophe brought a unique perspective and an uncompromising drive for quality. He implemented a philosophy centered on meticulous vineyard management, drastically low yields, and a non-interventionist approach in the cellar, aiming to produce wines of unparalleled purity and expression. His vision has not only honored the family’s heritage but has also propelled the domaine to international acclaim.

Production Philosophy and Numbers: A Commitment to Quality Over Quantity

Domaine Perrot-Minot’s operations are defined by an almost fanatical attention to detail. The estate manages approximately 13 hectares of vineyards, a combination of owned parcels and long-term lease agreements (fermage), all farmed with the same meticulous care. The viticulture is sustainable, eschewing chemical fertilizers and herbicides to maintain the natural balance of each terroir.

A key aspect of the domaine’s philosophy is the emphasis on old vines, with the majority of their parcels planted with vines aged 45 years or older. Some select cuvées, famously labeled “Cuvée Ultra Vieilles Vignes,” are sourced from vines that are between 70 and 110 years old. These ancient vines naturally produce small, concentrated berries (millerandage), which are fundamental to the intensity and complexity of the final wines.

Production at the domaine is intentionally limited to ensure the highest quality. Yields are kept exceptionally low, often around 25 to 30 hectoliters per hectare. This results in a total production that varies with the vintage’s conditions. For instance, a “normal” year might see around 150 barrels produced, but challenging vintages like 2021 saw this number shrink to just 49 barrels.This small-scale production makes the wines highly sought after and often difficult to acquire, with some micro-cuvées yielding fewer than 50 cases.

In the cellar, Christophe Perrot-Minot’s approach is one of precision and minimal intervention. A rigorous sorting process, both in the vineyard and at the winery on a vibrating sorting table, ensures that only perfectly ripe and healthy grapes are used. The use of new oak is judicious, typically around 20-30%, to support the wine without masking its intrinsic terroir character. Whole-bunch fermentation is often employed, with the percentage varying depending on the cuvée and vintage, to enhance aromatic complexity and add a silky texture and freshness.¹⁵ The wines are bottled without fining or filtration, preserving their natural integrity.

The Diverse and Prestigious Wines of Perrot-Minot

The portfolio of Domaine Perrot-Minot is a stunning tour through the most revered appellations of the Côte de Nuits. The wines are consistently praised for their seamless texture, aromatic depth, and ability to age gracefully. The range is logically structured, ascending from exceptional village wines to a remarkable collection of Premier and Grand Crus.

Grands Crus: The Pinnacle of the Portfolio

The domaine produces wines from no fewer than seven Grand Cru vineyards, a testament to its exceptional holdings. These are the crown jewels of the estate:

• Chambertin-Clos de Bèze Grand Cru: A wine of immense power and elegance, known for its profound complexity and longevity.
• Chambertin Grand Cru: Often described as the king of Burgundy, Perrot-Minot’s version is a benchmark of structure and depth.
• Chapelle-Chambertin Grand Cru: Typically offers a graceful and aromatic expression of this terroir, which lies just below Clos de Bèze.
• Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru: Sourced from a prime, high-slope parcel, this wine is noted for its perfumed bouquet and finesse.
• Mazoyères-Chambertin Grand Cru: Though it can be labeled as Charmes-Chambertin, Christophe vinifies it separately to highlight its distinct, mineral-driven character.
• Griotte-Chambertin Grand Cru: Produced in minuscule quantities from a tiny plot, this is an aromatically delicate and intensely flavored wine.
• Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru: A powerful and structured wine that reflects the classic character of this large and diverse Grand Cru.

Premiers Crus: Expressions of Premier Terroirs

Perrot-Minot’s Premier Cru wines are of outstanding quality, often rivaling the Grand Crus of other producers:

• Nuits-Saint-Georges 1er Cru “La Richemone” Vieilles Vignes: One of the domaine’s most iconic bottlings, sourced from centenarian vines, offering incredible density and complexity.
• Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru “La Combe d’Orveau” Vieilles Vignes: Situated next to the Grand Cru Musigny, this is a wine of exceptional refinement and aromatic purity.
• Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru “Les Fuées” Vieilles Vignes: Known for its elegance and minerality, bordering the Grand Cru of Bonnes-Mares.
• Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru “Les Charmes” Vieilles Vignes: A classic Chambolle, expressing delicate floral notes and silky tannins.
• Morey-Saint-Denis 1er Cru “La Riotte” Vieilles Vignes: A flagship of the home village, showcasing the structure and spice characteristic of Morey.
• Vosne-Romanée 1er Cru “Les Beaux Monts” Vieilles Vignes: A wine that perfectly balances aromatic intensity with a powerful mineral backbone.

Village and Lieu-dit Wines: An Introduction to Excellence

Even at the village level, the quality is exceptional, with many wines sourced from specific, high-quality lieux-dits:

• Morey-Saint-Denis “En la Rue de Vergy”: From a stony, high-altitude plot above Clos de Tart, this wine is impressively mineral-driven.
• Gevrey-Chambertin “Justice des Seuvrées”: A blend from two parcels that yields a classic Gevrey with red fruit intensity and a ferrous minerality.
• Vosne-Romanée “Les Champs Perdrix”: Described by Christophe as “elegant and diva-like,” this wine comes from a parcel just above La Grande Rue.
• Chambolle-Musigny “Orveaux des Bussières”: An outstanding village wine that includes declassified fruit from the 1er Cru La Combe d’Orveau, offering remarkable complexity for its level.

Through a rich history and an unwavering dedication to excellence, Domaine Perrot-Minot has secured its place as a leader in Burgundy. Each bottle is a reflection of Christophe Perrot-Minot’s vision: to create wines that are not only powerful and impressive but are, above all, pure, elegant, and true to their noble origins.