Joseph Roty, Domaine
Summary
Domaine Joseph Roty is a discreet family estate dating to 1710, operating across 10-15 hectares in Gevrey-Chambertin, producing powerful, age-worthy Pinot Noir wines from exceptional terroirs including their prized Charmes-Chambertin Très Vieilles Vignes from remarkably old vines. The domaine maintains traditional winemaking methods including whole cluster fermentation and extended oak aging, while their intensely private approach and limited production have created a cult following among collectors who treasure their authentic, terroir-driven expressions.
Heritage & Leadership
Domaine Joseph Roty stands as one of Burgundy's most enduring family estates, with roots dating back to circa 1710, making it one of the oldest continuously family-operated domains in the region. Based in Gevrey-Chambertin in the Côte de Nuits, the domaine's modern reputation was largely shaped under the leadership of Joseph Roty, who directed winemaking operations from the 1960s until his passing in 2008.
Following Joseph's death, his son Philippe Roty assumed management of the estate, continuing the family's winemaking traditions. The next generation is now represented through Philippe's son Pierre-Jean Roty, who has become involved in the family business, ensuring the continuation of their winemaking heritage. Throughout its history, the Roty family has maintained a notably private approach, generally avoiding publicity and focusing instead on their viticultural and winemaking practices.
Vineyards & Wines
Domaine Joseph Roty's vineyard holdings, estimated between 10-15 hectares, include some of Gevrey-Chambertin's most distinguished terroirs. Their portfolio is anchored by their Grand Cru holding in Charmes-Chambertin, where they produce their flagship wine from a plot designated "Très Vieilles Vignes" (Very Old Vines). The domaine also cultivates parcels in premier cru vineyards including Gevrey-Chambertin "Les Fontenys" and "Les Cherbaudes."
Beyond Gevrey-Chambertin, the Roty family produces wines from vineyards in Marsannay, including the "Champs St-Etienne" site. A distinguishing characteristic of their estate is the significant age of their vines, with some parcels containing vines over 80 years old, contributing to the concentration and complexity found in their wines.
The domaine focuses primarily on red wine production from Pinot Noir, as is typical for the Côte de Nuits region. Their wines are characterized by their power, structure, and considerable aging potential. While red wines form the core of their production, they also produce small quantities of white wine from Chardonnay, including a Bourgogne Blanc and potentially a Marsannay Blanc.
Philosophy & Practice
Domaine Joseph Roty adheres to traditional winemaking methods with minimal intervention, an approach that has remained consistent throughout generations of family stewardship. Their technical practices include the use of a high percentage of whole clusters during fermentation, a technique that contributes to the structure, aromatic complexity, and aging potential of their wines.
The winemaking process at the domaine involves hand harvesting with rigorous grape selection to ensure only the highest quality fruit enters production. Their wines generally undergo extended aging periods in oak barrels, with a moderate percentage of new oak that provides subtle complexity without overwhelming the fruit character.
The Roty family is known for their discretion regarding specific winemaking techniques, maintaining a level of privacy unusual in contemporary Burgundy. This reserved approach extends to their limited engagement with media and wine publications, preferring to let their wines speak for themselves. This commitment to traditional methods and focus on vineyard expression has established Domaine Joseph Roty as a producer of distinctive, age-worthy Burgundian wines that faithfully reflect their terroir.