Domaine du Pelican : En Barbi Chardonnay 2020

A fresh and mineral Chardonnaywine

The estate

Domaine du Pélican, a distinguished estate in Jura, France, is celebrated for its commitment to organic and biodynamic viticulture. Established by Guillaume d’Angerville, also of Burgundy’s esteemed Domaine Marquis d'Angerville, the winery combines Burgundy’s legacy of craftsmanship with Jura’s unique terroir. Known for producing wines of purity and elegance, Domaine du Pélican has garnered admiration for its dedication to expressing Jura’s distinctive qualities.

The vineyard

The En Barbi vineyard, where this Chardonnay is cultivated, lies in the limestone-rich slopes near Arbois, one of Jura’s most historic wine regions. This vineyard’s cool climate and mineral-rich marl soils create an ideal environment for Chardonnay, allowing it to capture a vibrant minerality and fresh acidity. The vineyard’s careful management and low-intervention approach preserve the vineyard’s natural expression, resulting in wines with an unmistakable sense of place.

The case

For its En Barbi Chardonnay, Domaine du Pélican meticulously selects fruit from the finest parcels to reflect the unique character of the 2020 vintage. The result is a wine that exemplifies the terroir-driven, elegant style that Domaine du Pélican is known for. This precision in selection and production underscores the estate’s commitment to quality, resulting in a Chardonnay that is both complex and highly expressive.

The blend

The En Barbi Chardonnay 2020 is made entirely from Chardonnay grapes, capturing the pure expression of Jura’s terroir. This single-varietal approach allows the distinct minerality and freshness of En Barbi’s limestone soils to come through clearly, delivering a wine that is both refined and deeply connected to its origins.

The Tasting

The 2020 En Barbi Chardonnay presents bright aromas of lemon zest, green apple, and white flowers, along with a signature note of wet stone. On the palate, the wine is both fresh and structured, with flavors of citrus and orchard fruits complemented by a striking minerality. The balanced acidity lends precision, while subtle hints of almond and spice emerge, adding depth to the wine’s vibrant profile. As it continues to age, the En Barbi Chardonnay will develop further complexity, making it a captivating choice for those who appreciate mineral-driven, elegant wines.