Estournelles is a thin strip of a vineyard, perched between Lavaux St Jacques and the forest. Just to the east of Estournelles, the hillside begins to turn toward the massive ravine of Combe de Lavaux that defines all the vineyards of the area. Estournelles is a significantly steep vineyard, and because of this, erosion has robbed the vineyard of much of its richer topsoil, leaving behind thin layer of porous, limestone-heavy, white marl covering the Crinoidal limestone-base below. As a result of its thin, poor soil the vineyard produces a wine that while often quite charming, it features a wonderful perfume and relative delicacy. Frederic Esmonin has a sizable parcel here and the wines routinely excellent. Estournelles Saint-Jacques 1er is a staple among Esmonin fans; the wine weaves through a dynamic evolution including sandalwood, cumin, potpourri, and wet eucalyptus bark. On the palate there are supple notes of caramel and delicate, fresh flowers; this wine is an absolutely elegant Gevrey Chambertin.