Jean Baptiste Jessiaume, France
This family-owned estate, steeped in tradition and innovation, has been crafting exceptional wines for generations, passing down the passion and expertise of its winemakers through the years. The Jessiaume family's roots in Santenay date back to 1830. Today, the sixth generation of the family, led by Jean Baptiste Jessiaume, continues to uphold the estate's legacy of producing high-quality Burgundy wines. With a deep connection to the land and a commitment to sustainable and environmentally friendly practices, Jean Baptiste is dedicated to creating wines that not only reflect the unique terroir of the region but also express the rich history and traditions of Burgundy.
Viticulture
The estate owns vineyard in various appellations, including Pommard, Saint-Aubin, Beaune, Saint-Romain, and Bourgogne autes-Côtes de Beaune. These vineyards, spanning a total of 12.5 hectares, are characterised by their diverse terroirs. The slopes range from gentle inclines to steeper hillsides, with varying altitudes and exposures. The soil profiles include limestone, clay-limestone, and marl, each contributing unique characteristics to the wines. The vines are primarily planted with Pinot Noir and Chardonnay and are predominantly mature and well-established. They are typically trained on traditional trellising Guyot or Cordon systems, producing a range of cuvées, each reflecting the uniqueness of its terroir of origin. These wines are renowned for their elegance, complexity, and ability to age gracefully. The estate minimises the use of chemical inputs, promotes biodiversity, and employs organic or biodynamic farming methods whenever possible.
Winemaking
Jean-Baptiste Jessiaume is a passionate advocate for sustainable winemaking practices. The winemaking process is also low intervention, allowing the natural character of the grapes to shine through. Harvesting at the estate is a meticulous process, with grapes hand-picked at optimal ripeness. The harvested grapes are gently pressed, with the resulting juice fermented in oak barrels. The wines undergo a period of lees aging, allowing them to develop complexity and texture. The aging process varies depending on the wine and the desired style. Offered here is a delightful taste of Burgundy, showcasing the exceptional quality and diversity of wines from this iconic region. With its commitment to tradition, sustainability, and producing wines that reflect the unique terroir of Santenay, the estate continues to be a standout in the world of Burgundy winemaking. Jean Baptiste Jessiaume's talent and dedication has been widely recognised within the industry. In 2012, his exceptional winemaking skills were acknowledged with the prestigious Young Talent trophy, awarded by renowned wine critic Allen Meadows. This accolade marked a significant milestone in Jean Baptiste Jessiaume's career, solidifying his reputation as a rising star in the world of winemaking.
