Domaine du Pélican Arbois 'Grand Curoulet' Chardonnay 2018

Domaine d'Angerville is best known as a leading biodynamic producer in Volnay, but since 2012 they have been making some stunning wine in the Jura as Domaine du Pélican. Their vineyards include five hectares previously belonging to the legendary Jacques Puffeney (now retired) and everything is farmed biodynamically. The wines were superb - elegant and wonderfully refined - from the start and just keep getting better. Grand Curoulet is one of the best terroirs in Arbois, and this Chardonnay is outstanding. Aged in 500l barrels with no new oak, it has amazing tension and complexity.

Crisper than the straight Arbois Chardonnay 2018 and really salty, mouth-watering. A little more herbal and less ripe fruit. Stony, mineral tension. Opens to a richer aroma that includes a surprising hint of apricot. Slightly chewy, so complex for a young-vines wine.

17.5 points

Julia Harding MW, JancisRobinson.com, 26/02/2020