Domaine du Pelican : Grand Curoulet Chardonnay 2020

An elegant and precice Chardonnay

The estate

Domaine du Pélican, located in the Jura region of France, has quickly gained a reputation for producing wines of exceptional purity and finesse. Founded by Guillaume d’Angerville of Burgundy’s Domaine Marquis d'Angerville, Domaine du Pélican is celebrated for its commitment to organic and biodynamic practices, drawing on the winemaking heritage of both Burgundy and Jura. The estate focuses on capturing the unique terroirs of Jura with remarkable precision and respect for nature.

The vineyard

The Grand Curoulet vineyard, where this Chardonnay is grown, lies in the limestone-rich slopes of Montigny-lès-Arsures, one of Jura’s premier wine-growing areas. The vineyard’s cool climate, combined with its limestone and marl soils, creates ideal conditions for Chardonnay, allowing the grape to retain vibrant acidity while developing intense minerality and complexity. Domaine du Pélican’s low-intervention approach in the vineyard preserves the terroir’s natural expression.

The case

For its Grand Curoulet Chardonnay, Domaine du Pélican carefully selects grapes that reflect the full potential of the vineyard’s unique terroir. The 2020 vintage captures the signature freshness and minerality of the Jura, along with the rich, layered profile that is characteristic of this site. This meticulous selection and commitment to quality are evident in every bottle, highlighting the estate’s dedication to crafting wines of refinement and authenticity.

The blend

The Domaine du Pélican Grand Curoulet Chardonnay 2020 is produced solely from Chardonnay grapes, allowing for a pure and unadulterated expression of the vineyard’s terroir. This single-varietal wine exemplifies the precision and depth of Chardonnay grown in Jura’s distinctive soils.

The tasting

The 2020 Grand Curoulet Chardonnay reveals inviting aromas of citrus blossom, green apple, and wet stone, underscored by a touch of hazelnut. On the palate, the wine is lively yet complex, with flavors of pear, lemon zest, and a distinctive minerality that lends structure and length. The refreshing acidity and subtle oak influence add depth without overpowering, culminating in a long, focused finish. This Chardonnay is compelling in its youth and will develop even more layers of complexity with aging, making it a superb choice for lovers of elegant, terroir-driven wines.