Domaine Jessiaume Bourgogne Aligoté 2022

Winery Background and History

Founded in 1850 by the Jessiaume family, Domaine Jessiaume is situated in Santenay, within Burgundy’s esteemed Côte de Beaune region. The estate has a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality wines that reflect the unique terroirs of Burgundy. In recent years, under new ownership, the domaine has embraced organic viticulture and minimal-intervention winemaking practices, aiming to express the purity and authenticity of their vineyards. Their commitment to sustainable agriculture and traditional methods has solidified their standing as a respected producer in the region.

Producer and Winemaker

Currently, Domaine Jessiaume is under the ownership of Dr. Jean-François Le Bigot, a wine enthusiast dedicated to maintaining the estate’s legacy of quality. The winemaking team focuses on minimal-intervention techniques, allowing the grapes to naturally express their character. This approach includes organic farming practices and careful attention to detail during the vinification process, ensuring that each wine authentically represents its origin.

Vineyards and Microclimate

The Aligoté grapes for this wine are sourced from vineyards within the Burgundy region, known for its diverse terroirs and favorable climate for viticulture. The soils in these vineyards are typically composed of limestone and clay, providing excellent drainage and contributing to the mineral complexity of the wines. Burgundy’s continental climate, characterized by cold winters and warm summers, allows for a growing season that promotes the development of balanced acidity and ripe fruit flavors in the grapes. The specific vineyard sites for the Bourgogne Aligoté are selected to highlight the varietal’s freshness and vibrant character.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

100% Aligoté

Vinification & Aging Methods

After direct pressing of whole grapes, the juice is transferred to stainless steel tanks for settling. Fermentation occurs naturally with indigenous yeasts in a combination of oak barrels and tanks. The wine undergoes aging on its lees for 10 months without the use of new oak, preserving the varietal’s fresh and tangy profile. This method enhances the wine’s texture and complexity while maintaining its characteristic acidity and fruit-forward nature.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

Approximately 12.5%

Tasting Notes

The 2022 Bourgogne Aligoté presents a clear pale lemon color. On the nose, it offers classic Aligoté aromas with a tangy note that entices the palate. The palate reveals a mix of ripe citrus and greengage flavors, maintaining a balance between ripeness and the grape’s traditional character. The wine is ripe enough to be approachable yet retains its classic profile, offering a refreshing and salivating experience. 

Food & Wine Pairing

This Aligoté is a brilliant companion to dishes that are salty, spicy, or fatty. It pairs exceptionally well with seafood, such as oysters, grilled fish, and shrimp, as well as fresh goat cheese. The wine’s bright acidity and tangy notes complement the richness of these foods, providing a refreshing contrast and enhancing the overall dining experience.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate its aromatic complexity and crispness, serve the Bourgogne Aligoté well-chilled at around 8-10°C (46-50°F) in medium-sized white wine glasses. This temperature accentuates the wine’s freshness and allows its nuanced aromas to shine. It’s recommended to open the bottle shortly before serving to preserve its delicate aromatics.

Storage and Aging Potential

While this Bourgogne Aligoté is enjoyable upon release, displaying vibrant fruit flavors and crisp acidity, it also has the potential to develop additional complexity with short-term cellaring. When stored properly in a cool, dark environment with stable temperatures, it can be enjoyed over the next 3 to 5 years, during which it may develop richer textures and more pronounced mineral characteristics.