Domaine Dujac Puligny Montrachet - Folatières & Combettes "Layered and voluptuous"

When thinking of the Côte de Nuits in Burgundy, France, it is nearly impossible to not dream of the excellent wines of Domaine Dujac. With a history dating back to the 1960s, this renowned estate has consistently produced wines that embody the essence of the region's terroir, showcasing the artistry and dedication of the Dujac family. Exploring the Domaines traditional methods combined with its dynamic spirit help shed light on the process behind creating one of Burgundys finest.

A Legacy Unveiled

Jacques Seysses, inspired by his father's passion for fine wines, transitioned into winemaking after working for the family biscuit company. In 1968, he purchased Domaine Graillet in Morey-Saint-Denis, renaming it Domaine Dujac as a playful nod to his own name. Joined by his wife Rosalind in 1973, the couple laid the foundation for a family legacy that would extend into the next generation.

The Seysses family's commitment to quality winemaking continues to be embodied by the next generation—Jeremy Seysses, who joined in 1998, and his wife Diana, followed by brother Alec in 2003. Together, they steer the estate's destiny with a focus on responsible vineyard techniques. The estate, which began with 5 hectares, has expanded strategically over the years, venturing further into iconic Burgundian terroir, such as Puligny-Montrachet in 2014, acquiring their famous Premier Crus Folatières and Combettes.

A Commitment to Quality

Domaine Dujac's philosophy revolves around the belief that the quality of wine begins in the vineyard. At the heart of Domaine Dujac's success is a profound respect for terroir—the unique combination of soil, climate, and vineyard location that imparts distinct characteristics to the grapes. The estate boasts an impressive array of vineyards across some of Burgundy's most esteemed appellations, including Gevrey-Chambertin, Morey-Saint-Denis, and Vosne-Romanée.

Domaine Dujac thrives on the essence of a family business, with a large team dedicated to vineyard care, winemaking, and the estate's overall well-being. Each plot is carefully tended to, and the winemakers at Dujac believe in minimal intervention, allowing the grapes to express themselves authentically. The estate employs their significant workforce to ensure meticulous attention to detail, especially during the crucial harvest season.

Dujac’s Impressive Signature Wines

The portfolio of Domaine Dujac includes an impressive lineup of red and white wines, each a testament to the estate's unwavering commitment to excellence. The red wines, primarily Pinot Noir, exhibit a harmonious balance of fruit, acidity, and tannins. Elevage in oak barrels, carefully selected and aged to ensure optimal quality, plays a crucial role in refining the tannins and enhancing the overall structure of Domaine Dujac's red wines. Notable examples include the Gevrey-Chambertin Premier Cru and the Clos de la Roche Grand Cru.

The white wines, showcase elegance and finesse, with the Puligny-Montrachet and Meursault standing out as stellar representations of Dujac's white wine prowess.

Deep Dive Into The Legendary Puligny-Montrachet

Puligny-Montrachet, a revered appellation in Côte de Beaune, is a vital part of Domaine Dujac's portfolio. The limestone-rich soils, coupled with a continental climate, provide an ideal terroir for Chardonnay. Domaine Dujac's holdings in Puligny-Montrachet, including Premier Crus Les Folatières and Les Combettes, exemplify the subtle distinction, minerality, and firm structure characteristic of the region.

Domaine Dujac's Premier Crus Les Folatières (2.9 acres) epitomize the essence of Puligny-Montrachet. Situated on the westward slope with a southeast orientation, the brown-red soil is abundant in angular white limestone rocks. This terroir imparts a captivating expression to the wine, revealing a rich mineral influence that defines the expression of Puligny-Montrachet.

In contrast, Les Combettes (1.5 acres) represents the finesse of Puligny-Montrachet with elegance and structure. Positioned on a north slope with a southeast orientation, this parcel neighbors Meursault. The soil, rich in silt, sand, and clay, is adorned with light-colored limestone stones, creating a wine that harmoniously balances elegance and structure.

It is almost impossible to imagine that these are just two of the many different magnificent wines Domaine Dujac has to offer…

Winemaking Craftsmanship

The winemaking philosophy at Domaine Dujac revolves around balance, freshness, and a non-interventionist approach. The whole-bunch fermentation method, with minimal destemming, allows the authenticity of the grapes to shine through. Indigenous yeasts, careful elevage in oak barrels, and a meticulous focus on refining tannins contribute to the creation of wines that are elegant, supple, and reflective of their terroir.

The True Spirit Of Burgundy

Domaine Dujac's journey from its inception in 1968 to the present day is a tale of passion, commitment, and an unwavering dedication to the art of winemaking. From the historic sites of Morey-Saint-Denis to the newly acquired vineyards in Puligny-Montrachet, each bottle reflects the Seysses family's respect for terroir, sustainable practices, and the timeless pursuit of crafting wines that embody the true spirit of Burgundy.

Written by: Arabella Maislinger