Les Arvelets (1er Cru, Pommard)

Les Arvelets sits at the northern end of Pommard's premier cru belt, positioned at the exit of the Grande Combe valley at 270 meters elevation. The vineyard's south-facing orientation maximizes sun exposure during the growing season, a critical advantage in Burgundy's temperate continental climate. The site spans 8 hectares and benefits from the natural shelter the valley provides, moderating extremes while still delivering the warm ripening conditions Pinot Noir demands.

• Elevation of 270 meters on south-facing slopes
• Located at the Grande Combe valley exit in northern Pommard
• Temperate continental climate with cold winters and hot summers
• South aspect aids ripening in this cooler Burgundian context

The soils at Les Arvelets combine clay-limestone with notable iron oxide content, along with alluvium and silt deposits. This iron-rich composition is a defining feature of the site, contributing to the firm tannic structure and mineral character that distinguishes Les Arvelets from softer, rounder Pommard premiers crus. The clay component retains moisture during dry summers while the limestone provides the drainage and mineral backbone that underpins the wine's aging potential.

• Clay-limestone base enriched with iron oxide
• Alluvial and silt components from valley activity
• Iron content drives mineral grip and structural firmness
• Clay retains moisture; limestone ensures drainage and minerality

Les Arvelets produces red wines from Pinot Noir that sit on the more elegant end of the Pommard spectrum. Where many Pommard premiers crus are known for their robust, muscular character, Les Arvelets delivers a silkier texture alongside ripe red fruit aromas, violet florals, spice, and mineral notes. The firm structure is present but balanced, making these wines approachable relatively young while still rewarding medium-term cellaring. The site's south-facing exposure promotes consistent ripeness, contributing to the wine's plush fruit character.

• Ripe red fruit aromas with violet, spice, and mineral notes
• Silkier texture than many Pommard premiers crus
• Firm structure supports aging but allows earlier approachability
• Consistent ripeness from south-facing exposure

The name Les Arvelets derives from Latin roots referencing old cultivated fields, reflecting the long agricultural history of this site. The vineyard has been classified as a Pommard Premier Cru, placing it within the appellation's recognized hierarchy of quality sites. It is also referenced by some producers as Clos des Arvelets, though Les Arvelets is the official designation. The vineyard is considered one of the stronger sites within the Pommard appellation, with its terroir delivering consistent quality across vintages.

• Name derived from Latin for old cultivated fields
• Also referenced as Clos des Arvelets by certain producers
• Classified Pommard Premier Cru in the Burgundy hierarchy
• Recognized as one of Pommard's more reliable premier cru sites

Les Arvelets is worked by a diverse range of producers, from large négociants to small family domaines. Louis Latour holds parcels here, offering broader distribution, while Domaine Virely-Rougeot, Domaine Francois Parent, Domaine Cyrot-Buthiau, and Domaine Confuron-Cotetidot represent the domaine-bottled tradition central to Burgundy. Domaine Berthelemot, Domaine Violot-Guillemard, Bernard Rion, and Esprit Leflaive round out the producer roster. This mix of large and small estates means the vineyard is represented across multiple price points and winemaking philosophies.

• Louis Latour provides négociant access to the appellation
• Domaine Confuron-Cotetidot known for traditional winemaking
• Esprit Leflaive brings the Leflaive family's precision to the site
• Range of producers spans value to premium price tiers