Domaine Fernand & Laurent Pillot, Pommard Tavannes, Burgundy, France, 2024

Producer Profile

Laurent Pillot, who took over the running of this domaine in his mid-20s, transformed his family’s estate from one devoted to grape-growing into one of the more distinguished winemaking estates in the Côte de Beaune, though he has since transferred the winemaking responsibilities to his son, Adrien.

Consisting of a superb collection of vineyards and a modern winemaking facility on the edge of St Aubin, both the domaine’s reds and whites are of an excellent quality – notably the white Chassagne-Montrachet and the rounded, sultry Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru Morgeot Rouge, both of which clearly express a beautiful underlying minerality.

Viticulture

Pinot Noir vines pruned in simple Guyot cover 1.98 acres, planted in 1953 and 1974. The single Tavannes parcel spans 0.8 hectares on clay‑limestone soils, coloured red by iron oxide. This classic Pommard terroir provides depth, structure and характер to the wine.

Winemaking

The grapes are hand‑picked, transported to the winery, destemmed and placed into tank. After several days of cold maceration, fermentation begins using traditional methods with regular cap punching, allowing gentle extraction and careful temperature control throughout the process.

Tasting Note

Contrary to the traditional reputation of Pommard as firm and virile, this wine shows a substantial yet rounded mouthfeel. Aromas of cherry, blackberry and spice lead to a structured palate with fine, slightly dry tannins. With time, its youthful vigour softens into a more harmonious and expressive style.

Food matching

Well matched with steak, lamb or strong soft cheeses. With bottle age, it is particularly fine alongside duck breast, where its mature fruit and structure come fully into harmony.