Dujac
History and Background
Located in the village of Morey-Saint-Denis in the heart of Burgundy’s prestigious Côte de Nuits, Domaine Dujac was indeed founded in 1967 by Jacques Seysses. Jacques initially had a singular goal: to produce wines that faithfully expressed the terroir of their vineyards, following the philosophy that great wine begins on the vine.
Jacques’s background in the financial sector, coupled with his hands-on experience working in established wineries such as Domaine Gouges in Nuits-Saint-Georges and Moulin-Tacussel in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, provided him with a unique perspective that he applied at Dujac. His approach combined traditional Burgundian techniques with some modern innovations such as the use of new oak barrels for aging, which at the time was not a common practice in the region.
Under Jacques’s leadership, Dujac quickly established a reputation for the quality of its wines. The domaine expanded its holdings to include exceptional Grand Cru and Premier Cru sites, acquiring prized parcels in vineyards such as Clos de la Roche, Clos Saint-Denis, and Gevrey-Chambertin, among others. These acquisitions not only increased the domaine’s production capabilities but also enhanced its ability to create a wider array of distinguished wines.
In the 1990s, Jacques’s sons Jeremy and Alec joined the domaine, injecting new energy and continuing the family tradition. Together, they have upheld their father’s standards while also placing a greater emphasis on sustainable farming practices. The domaine has been practicing organic viticulture and has incorporated aspects of biodynamic farming to enhance the health of their vineyards and reflect a more natural wine-growing philosophy.
The Seysses family’s dedication to quality, from careful vineyard management to meticulous winemaking, has established Domaine Dujac as a beacon of excellence in Burgundy. The integration of tradition with innovative techniques underlines the domaine’s ongoing commitment to producing profound, terroir-driven wines that are celebrated worldwide.
Vineyards and Terroir
Domaine Dujac, situated in Morey-Saint-Denis in the heart of Burgundy’s Côte de Nuits, is renowned for its prestigious vineyard holdings across several top appellations including Grand Crus such as Clos de la Roche, Clos Saint-Denis, Bonnes-Mares, and Charmes-Chambertin. The estate’s vineyards feature a soil composition largely dominated by limestone and clay, sometimes interspersed with marl, facilitating nuanced mineral complexity in the wines. Primarily focused on Pinot Noir, the estate excels in expressing the varietal’s full potential through its terroir-driven red wines, while also producing a select range of Chardonnay-based white wines, showcasing the versatility and rich heritage of Burgundian viticulture.
Domaine Dujac's vineyards typically feature a combination of limestone and clay, with variations depending on the plot. This mixture is crucial as it provides excellent drainage, contributes to the mineral complexity, and helps in moderating soil temperatures, which is particularly beneficial for Pinot Noir. The presence of marl (a calcium carbonate-rich mudstone) also adds to the diversity of the terroir expression, influencing the texture and aromatic profile of the wines.
Wine Style and Production
Domaine Dujac, located in the Burgundy region of France, is renowned for crafting wines that are:
- Elegant, complex, and showcase aromatic purity and depth. The wines are known for their intricately layered flavors and seamless integration of fruit and earthy characteristics.
- Produced with a minimal intervention philosophy, which underscores a deep respect for the terroir. This approach allows the unique characteristics of each vineyard site and grape variety to express themselves vividly, resulting in wines that are not only authentic but also highlight the distinctive qualities of their origins.
The winemaking practices at Domaine Dujac are deeply rooted in organic and biodynamic principles. Since the early 2000s, the domaine has adopted these sustainable practices both in the vineyard and during the winemaking process to ensure that the vines and the environment are treated with the utmost respect and care. This commitment to sustainability helps in maintaining the health of the vineyard ecosystem, leading to richer and more flavorful grapes.
Furthermore, Domaine Dujac utilizes whole-cluster fermentation for a significant portion of their wines, a traditional Burgundian technique that contributes to the structural complexity and aromatic intensity of the final wines. The use of indigenous yeasts and a restrained approach to new oak are additional hallmarks of their style, assisting in the production of wines that are well-balanced and true to their varietal character.
Reputation
Domaine Dujac, established in 1967 by Jacques Seysses, has risen to prominence as one of Burgundy's most prestigious wine producers. Particularly renowned for their Grand Cru and Premier Cru offerings from Côte de Nuits, Dujac's wines are highly sought after by collectors and wine enthusiasts around the world. Renowned for their longevity, complexity, and exceptional ability to express the nuances of their terroir, these wines showcase a masterful balance of intensity and elegance.
Under the leadership of Jeremy Seysses, Dujac continues to prioritize traditional winemaking techniques while incorporating thoughtful innovations such as the use of organic and biodynamic practices, which they have increasingly adopted since the early 2000s. This approach emphasizes their dedication to sustainability and respect for the environment, further enhancing the natural expression of their vineyards.
The estate’s deep commitment to minimal intervention in both the vineyard and the winery cements its status as a benchmark producer in Burgundy, delivering wines that not only reflect their prestigious origins but also carry a distinct signature of quality and care. Domaine Dujac's profound connection to its land and its adoption of both traditional and contemporary practices have established it as an exemplary model in the region.
Final Thoughts
Domaine Dujac in Burgundy is renowned for its exceptional approach to winemaking. Established in 1967 by Jacques Seysses, and now run by his son Jeremy and Jeremy's wife, Diana, the domaine has earned a stellar reputation for its profound understanding and expression of the terroir. While traditional techniques remain a cornerstone of their production process, innovation and an environmental consciousness also play crucial roles. Specializing in Pinot Noir and emphasizing the elegance and complexity characteristic of top-tier Burgundian wine, Domaine Dujac wines exhibit a remarkable balance, depth, and authenticity, capturing the true essence of their appellations. Their portfolio, primarily focused on red wines but including some whites, consistently ranks among the world's most admired Burgundy wines, making them a quintessential choice for enthusiasts seeking both distinction and tradition in wine.