Domaine Georges Joillot

POMMARD – I started working with Jean-Luc Joillot in 2000. Even though he was relatively young, he was one of the most respected winemakers in Pommard. In fact, the other winemakers elected him President of their Winemakers’ Association. Jean-Luc and I grew our businesses together, visited each other often, stayed in each other’s homes, and hosted each other’s children.

In 2015, Jean-Luc’s children started working in the family estate. First came Simon, who brought a passion for winemaking. Then came Jeanne to manage the estate and take care of the family financial affairs. Finally, Gregoire (Jeanne’s husband) became an integral member of the team. Hospitality is his specialty. Jean-Luc is still involved in the business, but this 4th generation of winemakers in the family was ready to make its mark.

With their arrival, two big changes were made. First, the name of the estate was changed from Jean-Luc Joillot to Georges Joillot. Georges was Jean-Luc’s father; so this retro name change now includes all the family members who work in the family business. Second, the style of the wines changed from hearty, robust Pinot Noirs to more approachable, fruity, and nuanced wines.

The family and a few workers handle everything from pruning the vines to bottling. At the same time, they both respect Burgundian traditions and have also modernized the Joillot estate.

Years ago, Jean-Luc told me that he “puts his heart in every bottle”. This talented next generation continues that philosophy and makes delicious wines.