NV Jean-Luc Joillot Cremant de Bourgogne Blanc, Burgundy, France

ABOUT THIS WINE

Sparkling wine from Burgundy. Produced only with the traditional grapes (70% Pinot Noir and 30% Chardonnay) used to make true Champagnes. Also, the traditional method for making Champagne is used for this Crémant. It is aged at least 18 months on the lees, which is more than most entry-level Champagnes. In fact, in blind taste tests, people choose this Crémant over many famous Champagnes. It’s like a true Champagne at half the cost!

ABOUT THIS PRODUCER

Jean-Luc had the misfortune of being very young when his father died. So, the Joillot estate was held in trust by his mother for him until he was 21 years old. Then, he was instantly thrust into the position of landowner / winemaker.

Now, Jean-Luc is the “diaper dandy” of Pommard. He has earned the respect of the entire winemaking community. In fact, Jean-Luc was President of the Winemakers’ Association in Pommard until 2009 … a big honor to be selected out of the 70 winemakers in Pommard.

Jean-Luc is vigorous and energetic, which is reflected in the robust style of his wines. He uses traditional Burgundian methods and enthusiastically oversees every aspect of the winemaking process. Jean-Luc, Lydia, and 3 workers do everything from pruning the vines to bottling.

Jean-Luc has learned to strike a keen balance between a wine that is cellar-able for years and a wine that is a pleasure to drink now. His wines are well structured, but also retain the elegance so characteristic of only the best Burgundies. It’s no wonder that year in and year out, Jean-Luc wins so many awards for his wines. Jean-Luc puts it best when he says, “I put my heart in every bottle.”