Years ago, Guillaume d’Angerville was served a glass of Arbois Chardonnay in a blind tasting. He thought it was a top example of Burgundy. This unforgettable experience sent him on a vision quest in the tiny, historic appellation of Arbois, which has resulted in Domaine du Pélican. Just a short hour drive east of Burgundy, the Arbois is one of the oldest appellations in France, granted AOC status in 1936, and was once revered as a source of great wine by the Romans. Most famous for its production of “Vin Jaune,” or yellow wine, produced under a thick layer of yeast called flor, it is similar in its production to fine sherry. The small village in the Jura Mountains, which lies in the foothills of the French Alps, is also capable of producing some magnificent examples of high-toned, perfumed Burgundian varietals. This example delivers the pinnacle of the Arbois’ Burgundian varietals from some of the greatest, biodynamically farmed parcels of the entire appellation.

 

Crafted with Burgundian know-how from Jacques Puffeney’s celebrated vineyards, along with a couple of other respected sites, this wine joins the greatest pedigree of Arbois’ vineyards with some of the most spectacular lineage of Burgundy in the cellar. Comprised of 60% Pinot Noir blended with local varietals Trousseau and Poulsard, the Trois Cepagés is a riveting snapshot of Domaine du Pélican’s noble efforts. Along with estate manager, François Duvivier, Guillaume d’Angerville has embarked on a virtuous journey to uplift the small appellation to even greater heights and this stunning wine is a true testament of that endeavor. With the minimalist approach in the cellar that Guillaume practices in his own Burgundian cellars, this wine is a shining example that great wines are made in the vineyards and is a riveting translation of the celebrated alpine terroir.