Domaine Bonnardot Santenay 1er Cru Clos Rousseau

The craft of winemaking is no longer an exclusively male domain. The increase in female presence is notable, and some of the most captivating wines of the moment bear the signature of women. However, even today it can be challenging to find a majority, whereas 20 years ago, a female oenologist was considered an endangered species. Owner and head oenologist of Domaine Bonnardot, a family-run winery nestled in the Côte de Beaune in Burgundy, Elisabet was one of these rare cases. Skilled and esteemed, after studying oenology at the University of Burgundy and gaining experience in wineries both in France and abroad, she returned to Burgundy to join the family business and take on the role of lead oenologist. Influenced by Jules Chauvet's philosophy of natural winemaking, she embraced his ethos from the outset and crafted natural wines that are a true expression of the terroir.

Today, her sons Ludovic and Emilien Bonnardot continue the legacy, adhering to organic farming practices and natural vinification techniques, showcasing through each of their wines the distinct character of the terroirs. In the case of Domaine Bonnardot Santenay 1er Cru Clos Rousseau, it is a red wine made from pinot noir vines situated in Santenay. These vines, with an average age of 45 years, are planted in stony clay-limestone soils. They practice organic farming with biodynamic treatments and harvest by hand at the optimal point of ripeness. In the winery, the grapes are meticulously selected and gently pressed as whole clusters, followed by an extended maceration period. Fermentation occurs with indigenous yeasts in oak foudres, without any additives, and thereafter, the wine matures for 14 months in oak barrels. It is then bottled unclarified, unfiltered, and without the addition of sulfites.

Indeed, as one of the few female oenologists in Burgundy, Elisabeth has become a role model for other women in the wine industry, but her talented commitment to natural winemaking has also paved the way for new generations at large. After all, the quality of wine is not constrained by gender.