La Jeunelotte

La Jeunelotte sits in the Blagny sector of Meursault, a cluster of vineyards perched at the upper boundary where Meursault transitions toward Puligny-Montrachet. At roughly 400 metres elevation, it is among the higher-altitude Premier Cru sites in the Côte de Beaune. The south-facing orientation ensures generous sunlight throughout the growing season, a significant advantage at this elevation where temperatures can be more variable. The vineyard also benefits from an enclosed microclimate that provides additional protection and consistency, allowing grapes to ripen with reliable character year after year.

• Situated in the elevated Blagny sector at the southern edge of Meursault
• Borders the Puligny-Montrachet appellation to the south
• South-facing aspect at 400 metres elevation
• Enclosed microclimate contributes to site distinctiveness

The soils at La Jeunelotte are clay-limestone with a notable presence of pebbles. This combination is characteristic of the upper Côte de Beaune, where the pebbly component improves drainage and heat retention while the clay-limestone base delivers the mineral structure that defines serious white Burgundy. The pebbles also reflect sunlight back onto the vine canopy, aiding phenolic and aromatic development. The result is a terroir that leans toward freshness and mineral precision rather than the rounder, more opulent character found in lower-elevation Meursault sites such as Perrières or Charmes.

• Clay-limestone soils with significant pebbly content
• Good drainage from pebble content supports vine stress and concentration
• Mineral-driven terroir favours fresh, structured Chardonnay
• Higher elevation moderates ripeness compared to lower Meursault sites

One of the most distinctive features of La Jeunelotte is its long-standing commitment to Cordon de Royat pruning, a method that has been practised continuously at the site since 1929. Cordon de Royat involves training the vine along a permanent horizontal cordon with short spurs, rather than the more common Guyot system used across much of Burgundy. This approach reduces yields, encourages even bud break, and is particularly well suited to sites where vine vigour needs to be managed carefully. The result is lower crop loads and greater concentration in the fruit, contributing to the wine's complexity and ageability.

• Cordon de Royat pruning in continuous use since 1929
• Pruning method reduces yields and manages vine vigour
• Lower crop loads contribute to concentration and complexity
• Long viticultural history adds to the site's distinct identity

La Jeunelotte produces white wine exclusively from Chardonnay, as is standard across Meursault Premier Cru. The wines are characterised by fresh acidity, mineral depth, and considerable complexity. The elevation and clay-limestone soils push the style toward a tighter, more precise expression than the richer, more buttery profile associated with some of Meursault's best-known sites. Notable producers include Comtesse Bernard de Cherisey and Domaine Martelet de Cherisey, both of which have strong connections to the Blagny sector, as well as Gilles Bouton and Fils. These are not household names in the way of some négociants, but they bring genuine site knowledge and commitment to terroir-driven winemaking.

• Comtesse Bernard de Cherisey: established producer with deep Blagny sector roots
• Domaine Martelet de Cherisey: closely linked to the same family estate tradition
• Gilles Bouton and Fils: a reliable Côte de Beaune domaine with Premier Cru holdings
• Style leans toward mineral precision and fresh acidity rather than opulence