Les Rugiens 2021 – Domaine Lejeune

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The noble heart of Pommard
Les Rugiens is considered one of the most prestigious vineyards in Pommard, often regarded as a natural candidate for future Grand Cru classification. The 2021 vintage from Domaine Lejeune faithfully expresses the terroir, with Pinot Noir showing power, elegance, and longevity. The clay-limestone soil matrix combined with the ideal location produces wines of extraordinary concentration and aromatic finesse.

Mature vines and biodynamic management
The vineyard spans 9 hectares with an average vine age of 45 years. Low yields and biodynamic viticulture contribute to pure and intact fruit, perfectly translating the mineral and spicy characteristics of the parcel. Harvesting is strictly manual, with careful selection in the vineyard to ensure only the best grapes are used.

Artisanal vinification and distinctive aging
The winemaking follows minimal intervention principles, favoring spontaneous fermentations and gentle extraction to preserve elegance and aromatic precision. Aging takes place in 228-liter barriques, 65–75% of which are new, adding structure and aromas without masking the terroir identity. Used barrels complete the balance, ensuring harmonious evolution.

Sensory profile and aging potential
Les Rugiens 2021 presents a deep ruby color with garnet highlights. The nose is complex with aromas of black cherry, blackberry, licorice, forest floor, and delicate smoky notes. On the palate, solid structure and silky tannins merge with vibrant freshness and a long, layered finish. This wine has great aging potential, improving over several years in the cellar.

Technical Sheet

• Region: Bourgogne, Côte de Beaune

• Variety: 100% Pinot Noir

• Appellation: Pommard Premier Cru AOC

• Vineyard size: 9 ha

• Soil: clay-limestone matrix

• Average vine age: 45 years

• Viticulture: biodynamic, natural

• Harvest: manual

• Vinification: spontaneous fermentation, gentle maceration

• Aging: 228 L barriques (65–75% new)

Domaine Lejeune

History and Philosophy

Domaine Lejeune is a historic winery located in the heart of Burgundy, specifically in the village of Pommard. Founded in 1783 by the Jullien de Pommerol family, it is currently managed by Louis de Belleroche. The estate spans about 8.7 hectares and is certified organic, focusing on respecting the terroir and environmental sustainability. Their goal is to express the true character of the land through attentive vineyard practices and traditional winemaking that highlight each unique cru.

Vineyards and Terroir

The vineyards are mainly located in Pommard, with some parcels in nearby areas such as Volnay, Beaune, and Bourgogne Rouge. The vines are carefully cultivated on typical Côte de Beaune soils rich in limestone and marl. Organic vineyard management and manual harvesting ensure high-quality grapes with a strong mineral and aromatic expression, typical of the region.

Winemaking Techniques

Winemaking combines traditional methods with modern technology. Fermentations take place in oak barrels, using indigenous yeasts and careful temperature control. Aging generally lasts from 12 to 18 months, with a variable percentage of new oak depending on the wine and vintage. The approach aims to preserve freshness and aromatic complexity, producing elegant and long-lived wines.

Wine Characteristics and Style

Domaine Lejeune is renowned for its robust and structured Pinot Noirs, rich in red fruit aromas, spices, and earthy notes, faithfully reflecting the Pommard terroir. The whites, mainly Chardonnay, stand out for their elegance, freshness, and mineral complexity. The portfolio includes prestigious crus such as Pommard 1er Cru Les Rugiens Bas and Les Argillières, as well as more accessible but consistently high-quality labels.

Technical Sheet

• Region: Pommard, Burgundy, France

• Vineyard Area: 8.7 ha

• Main Varieties: Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Aligoté

• Certification: Organic

• Winemaking: Fermentation in oak barrels with indigenous yeasts, malolactic fermentation completed

• Aging: 12-18 months in oak barrels, variable new oak percentage

• Wine Types: Reds (Pinot Noir), Whites (Chardonnay)

• Philosophy: Terroir expression, sustainability, traditional methods