Presentation
Located in Vosne-Romanée, Domaine Michel Noëllat traces its roots back to the 19th century with Félix Noëllat, a family pioneer. Since then, five generations have succeeded, combining heritage and modernity. The estate's evolution is illustrated by constant investments: in 1980, a vaulted stone cellar was dug under the property, and in 2007, an ultra-modern winery equipped with thermo-regulated stainless steel tanks was established. Since 2012, vineyard management has been handled by Sébastien Noëllat (responsible for viticulture and vinification) and his cousin Sophie, who oversees the commercial side. The vines, cultivated using sustainable practices, cover several prestigious appellations, including Vosne-Romanée, Chambolle-Musigny, and Clos de Vougeot. The reds are aged for 18 months in oak barrels, with meticulous work on extraction and aging. What makes it famous? Powerful and refined wines with a distinctive aromatic signature, blending bright fruit and silky textures.
Location
The Domaine Michel Noëllat’s Pommard vineyards are located on the southeast-facing slopes of the Côte de Beaune, between Beaune and Volnay. These parcels benefit from optimal sun exposure and good natural airflow, at altitudes between 250 and 330 meters. The well-balanced microclimate encourages even ripening of the Pinot Noir grapes while preserving freshness. This location contributes to producing powerful yet balanced wines, typical of the Pommard appellation.
Terroir
Pommard’s soils are clay-limestone in nature, rich in iron and often deeper than in neighbouring villages. These soils yield structured wines with pronounced but elegant tannins. Clay brings volume and power, while limestone provides lift and minerality. This terroir produces assertive reds with depth, intensity and excellent ageing potential.
In the vineyard
The domaine practices sustainable viticulture, avoiding herbicides and limiting chemical inputs. Soils are ploughed mechanically, and treatments are applied only when strictly necessary. This approach respects the natural balance of the vineyard while allowing grapes to reach optimal ripeness. Daily observation of the vines ensures targeted, quality-focused interventions.
Harvest
Harvesting is done entirely by hand, with meticulous sorting of the best bunches directly in the vineyard. Grapes are transported in small crates to prevent crushing and preserve berry integrity. This careful handling guarantees top-quality fruit, essential for crafting expressive and precise wines.
Winemaking
Vinification is traditional, with total or partial destemming depending on the vintage. Indigenous yeasts are used for fermentation in open vats, with gentle punch-downs and pump-overs.
Ageing
Maceration lasts between 18 and 21 days, followed by ageing in French oak barrels for around 18 months, with 20% new oak. This extended ageing on fine lees brings depth, elegance and complexity while preserving the identity of the terroir.
Varietal
Pinot Noir : 100%
Specifications
Production volume : 80 000
Age of vines : 50 years old
Serving
Serve between 13°C and 15°C to fully reveal the wine’s aromatic complexity and texture.
Ageing potential
5 to 10 years
Tasting
This Pommard Village from Domaine Michel Noëllat stands out with its deep garnet robe and ruby reflections. The nose is intense and complex, blending ripe black fruit aromas such as blackberry and cherry with more subtle notes of licorice, forest floor, and sweet spices. On the palate, the wine reveals impressive density, supported by a firm yet silky tannic structure. Its generous texture is balanced by a delicate freshness, leading to a long and elegant finish.
Food pairings
This wine pairs wonderfully with bold, flavourful dishes. It elevates a duck breast with balsamic vinegar and roasted figs, where rich fruit notes mirror the wine’s intensity. A British-style meat pie with slow-cooked beef and warm spices complements its depth. For a sweet match, try a pear, almond and cocoa tart, which echoes the wine’s fruitiness and spice. On the cheese side, a well-aged Mimolette or Soumaintrain rounds out its power with indulgence.