Domaine Gérard Villet

Domaine Gérard Villet, is located in Arbois, the oldest AOC in France (1936). The family has been making wine in the pastoral region of the Jura since 1900. The domaine is presently managed by husband and wife Gérard and Christine Villet. Gérard tends to the vineyards and winemaking, while Christine manages all commercial and administrative aspects of the estate. In 1988 the domaine converted to organic farming practices and it has not looked back since. The estate is now comprised of 5.4 hectares, with half of the vines planted to Chardonnay and the rest comprised of decreasing smaller amounts of Savagnin, Poulsard, Pinot and Trousseau.

Domaine Gérard Villet Arbois Chardonnay

Fully topped up version of Chardonnay here. Fresh fruit up front but plenty of Jura tang and what-not in the background.

Domaine Gérard Villet "Cuvée Orange" Arbois Chardonnay

Villet’s Cuvée Orange is vinified similarly to a red wine, in that the grapes are pressed only after the alcoholic fermentation is complete. This winemaking method yields a more aromatic and structured style of Chardonnay.

Domaine Gérard Villet Tradition Blanc Arbois

A classic white blend from the Arbois. The style of this wine varies from year to year - sometimes showing a lot of veil character, sometimes not so much.  But it's always delicious and always a favorite. 

Domaine Gérard Villet Arbois Savagnin

Fully oxidized but still very fresh. The Jura paradox on full display.

Domaine Gérard Villet Crémant du Jura Rosé NV

This over-achieving sparkling rosé spends 30 months on the lees before being disgorged. In contrast, the ageing requirements for Crémant du Jura AOC are only 9 months. A deeply colored and super vinous Crémant du Jura Rosé.

Domaine Gérard Villet Macvin du Jura Blanc Arbois NV

Domaine Villet’s Macvin du Jura evokes nuances of dates, dried apricots and orange confit. Lovely with the region’s Comte cheese, or almond cake with creme fraiche ice cream.

Domaine Gérard Villet Tradition Rouge Arbois

Delicate red berry fruits matched by delicate notes of earth and tea.  Tiny production and always gone too soon.  

Domaine Gérard Villet Arbois Pinot Noir

Usually a slightly fuller bodied wine than the Tradition.  There is depth and richness here that nods at their neighbor to the west but the ethereal Jura soul is everpresent.