Les Petits-Épenots

Les Petits-Épenots sits at the northern end of the Épenots lieu-dit in Pommard, positioned near the communal border with Beaune at the base of the Côte d'Or escarpment. The vineyard occupies elevations between 240 and 260 metres above sea level, with a southeast-facing aspect that captures morning sun and moderates afternoon heat. This exposure, combined with the continental climate of the Côte de Beaune, supports steady and even ripening of Pinot Noir through the growing season.

• Elevation: 240 to 260 metres above sea level
• Aspect: southeast-facing
• Located near the Pommard and Beaune communal boundary
• Situated at the base of the Côte d'Or escarpment

The soils of Les Petits-Épenots are composed of clay and limestone marls with notable ferruginous elements, meaning iron-rich compounds that contribute to the vineyard's distinctive character. This soil composition is typical of the lower slopes of Pommard and plays a direct role in shaping the structured, firm tannins and earthy depth that define wines from this site. The clay fraction retains moisture during dry periods, supporting vine health and consistency across vintages, while the limestone component contributes freshness and mineral lift.

• Clay and limestone marls form the primary soil base
• Ferruginous (iron-rich) elements are a defining characteristic
• Clay fraction supports moisture retention during dry conditions
• Limestone contributes mineral freshness to the wines

The Épenots lieu-dit has a long history in Pommard and encompasses three distinct sections: Les Petits Épenots to the north, Les Grands Épenots to the south, and the walled Clos des Épeneaux occupying the central portion. Each carries Premier Cru status within the Pommard appellation. The name Épenots derives from the French word 'épines,' a reference to the spiny bushes that historically grew around and within the vineyard boundaries. While the Clos des Épeneaux is a monopole associated with its walled enclosure, Les Petits Épenots is worked by multiple producers, creating a range of stylistic expressions across the same terroir.

• Part of a three-section lieu-dit alongside Grands Épenots and Clos des Épeneaux
• Name derives from 'épines,' French for spiny bushes
• All three Épenots sections hold Premier Cru status
• Les Petits Épenots is the northernmost of the three sections

Wines from Les Petits-Épenots express the classic Pommard character in a form that leans toward elegance without sacrificing structure. Expect red and black fruit aromas, often cherry and blackcurrant, layered with spice, earthiness, and occasional notes of forest floor and iron. The ferruginous soils contribute a subtle mineral quality and support firm but not harsh tannins. The southeast aspect encourages good fruit ripeness, keeping acidity fresh and the overall profile balanced. With proper cellaring, these wines develop considerable complexity and savory depth.

• Red and black fruit aromas, including cherry and blackcurrant
• Spice, earth, and iron-inflected mineral notes
• Firm, structured tannins supported by fresh acidity
• Develops savory complexity with bottle age

Several well-regarded estates and négociants work holdings within Les Petits-Épenots. Domaine Jean-Luc Joillot, also known as Domaine Georges Joillot, is among the established names from Pommard with roots in this site. Domaine Parent is a historic Pommard estate with significant presence in the appellation's Premier Cru vineyards. Justin Girardin and Domaine Deveney Mars represent additional producer perspectives on the terroir. Maison Joseph Drouhin, one of Burgundy's leading négociants, also produces a version, offering broader distribution and consistent quality across its Burgundy portfolio.

• Domaine Jean-Luc Joillot (Georges Joillot): established Pommard estate
• Domaine Parent: historic producer with deep Premier Cru holdings
• Maison Joseph Drouhin: prominent négociant with wide distribution
• Justin Girardin and Domaine Deveney Mars: additional notable producers