Domaine JametRhone, France

"Domaine Jamet's Côte-Rôtie is a benchmark for the appellation, known for its elegance, complexity, and ageing potential." - Jeb Dunnuck

Domaine Jamet, a name synonymous with exceptional Côte-Rôtie wines, traces its roots back to 1950 when Joseph Jamet founded the estate. Located in the Northern Rhône, this family-run winery has grown in stature and reputation over the decades. The baton was passed to Joseph's sons, Jean-Paul and Jean-Luc, who significantly elevated the estate's status on the global wine stage. Today, Jean-Paul's son, Loïc, is also involved, continuing the family's winemaking legacy.

The Jamet Brothers:

Jean-Paul and Jean-Luc Jamet, often referred to as the "Jamet Brothers," were instrumental in developing the estate's iconic style. They meticulously maintained the traditional winemaking practices that their father established while also embracing innovative techniques. Their collaboration was marked by a shared vision of producing wines that truly express the unique terroir of Côte-Rôtie. In 2013, the brothers decided to go separate ways, with Jean-Paul and his wife Corinne continuing to run Domaine Jamet.

Terroir and Location:

Domaine Jamet's vineyards are located in the heart of Côte-Rôtie, one of the most revered appellations in the Rhône Valley. The estate comprises around 20 hectares of vines, spread across multiple lieux-dits, including the prestigious Côte Brune and Côte Blonde. The terroir here is characterized by steep slopes, which require meticulous vineyard management. The soils are predominantly schist, with some granite and loess, contributing to the wines' complexity and minerality.

Côte-Rôtie's unique microclimate, influenced by the Rhône River and the surrounding hills, allows for the slow ripening of Syrah grapes, the primary variety used in Jamet's wines. This results in wines with intense aromatics, vibrant acidity, and fine tannins, capable of long-term ageing.

Legendary Status and Style:

Domaine Jamet has earned a legendary status among wine enthusiasts and critics alike. The estate's commitment to quality and its ability to craft wines that reflect the true essence of Côte-Rôtie have garnered widespread acclaim. The Jamet style is often described as elegant, balanced, and complex, with a distinct expression of terroir. The meticulous care taken in both the vineyard and the cellar is evident in every bottle. Traditional winemaking methods, such as whole-cluster fermentation and ageing in a combination of new and used oak barrels, help preserve the purity of fruit and the unique characteristics of the terroir.