Violot Guillemard

The beginnings of this Domaine date back to the early 20th century, when founder Joannes Faivre began growing vines in Pommard. Today the estate comprises of excellent vineyards along the entire Cote de Beaune which have been farmed organically for many years. Joannes Violot, who now works with father Thierry, seems to bring even more precision to the wines. These are especially subtle and complex Pinot Noirs which stand in stark contrast to the proverbial powerful and earthy expression of Pommard one reads about in books. These are classic Burgundies in the best sense of the word, full of silky fruit and charming red fruit aromatics. From the 2019 vintage, the wines are released under the ‘Joannes Violot-Guillemard’ label.

Thierry Violot-Guillemard is a true character in every sense of the word and is widely regarded as a favorite among those who know him. He is a bit gruff and burly on the outside, but with a warm and genuine tenderness within, much like his home village of Pommard. Sporting a wild, bushy, walrus mustache, Thierry's appearance belies the understated elegance found in his luscious wines. Where others find aggressive tannins, Thierry discovers finesse, creating Pommards that are uniquely balanced between power and grace.

Thierry and his wife Estelle run their 15-acre estate, which includes an excellent 4-room B&B next door that is always in high demand. Their son Johannes joined the operation after completing his viticulture education in 2015. The partnership with Thierry and his wines began when they were introduced by a mutual winemaker friend in Volnay back in 2005, marking the start of their import business.

Thierry practices organic farming out of a commitment to safety and health, famously stating, "I should be able to plant lettuce in my vineyards, feed it to my family, and not worry that I’d be poisoning them." His estate boasts fabulous old-vine holdings in the best Pommard 1er Crus (Rugiens and Epenots), a notable piece of Beaune Clos des Mouches 1er Cru (both red and white), and the jewel-box vineyard called Clos Derriere St. Jean. This Pommard 1er Cru is the smallest in Burgundy, at less than one-fourth of an acre, producing just about 20 cases of wine each year. Interestingly, Thierry reduced the vineyard's size in 2007 to install a swimming pool, as the Clos is actually in his backyard, right in the middle of the village.