September 29, 2023 - 0 comments
Domaine de la Tournelle, located in the beautiful region of Arbois, Jura, is renowned for its exceptional natural winemaking, spearheaded by the talented Evelyne Clairet.
Evelyne exudes balance, harmony and positivity. Hardworking would be an understatement, she oversees the domaine, has opened a wine bar called Bistrot de la Tournelle in her garden, co-owns Antidote wine bar in Soho London, plays piano and double bass, has 4 children… How does she find the time you wonder? Before she can answer she serves a plate of delicious homemade terrine, with a smile, that she prepares each week to be served at the Bistrot.
You’d be right to be impressed by Evelyne. Domaine de la Tournelle is world renowned, the wines they produce are truly unique and captivating, reflecting the diverse and complex terroir of the Jura region. The geological composition of marl, limestone, and clay soils imparts a distinctive minerality to the wines, adding depth and complexity. Evelyne's winemaking philosophy focuses on minimal intervention, allowing the wines to truly express their origin. She works exclusively with grapes that the domaine grow themselves, using organic and biodynamic practices.
Domaine de la Tournelle works with indigenous grape varieties that have adapted to Jura's climate and conditions over centuries. Savagnin, Poulsard, Trousseau and Chardonnay (though not native to the Jura, Chardonnay thrives in the region's cool climate). Unfortunately Poulsard is a variety that is suffering from the effects of climate change and many winemakers believe it will no longer be possible to grow in the Jura region in the coming years. Evelyne with her positive outlook replies ‘I’m team Poulsard, we just need to adapt and be forward thinking to save this grape”, which she admits is her favourite. Evelyne looks as the glass Poulsard in front of her, ‘I see the glass as half full, not empty’.
