Alexandre Jouveau is an artist, to say the least. After studying at the School of Fine Arts and working as a fashion photographer, including for Chanel, he changed direction, turning his attention to Burgundy, its vineyards and its vines. His wines bear his stamp, such as this Combarnier Vin de France produced from Chardonnay cultivated with loving care using environmentally friendly methods akin to organic farming. In the winery, the notion of preserving the identity of the terroir continues and is put into practice through low-intervention winemaking methods, in particular by allowing native yeasts to trigger fermentation and by using sulphur sparingly or not at all. The wine is then matured in foudres, large capacity tuns, to ensure that the woodiness does not overpower the aromas of the grape variety.
Tasting reveals a complex wine with a striking finesse, much sought-after by discerning wine enthusiasts. Unfortunately, quantities available are very limited… Here, great minerality is complemented by slightly oxidative sensations. A rare find, but one that will certainly stand proudly on the table after a well-earned aeration.