Domaine Bärtschi

Clément Bärtschi is part of a new generation of winemakers who have learned from the best of classic quality winemaking, and is bringing that sensibility and attention to detail to lesser known regions. He spent a lot of time on his grandparent's farm in Bugey while he was growing up, and it is to here he returned to start his own project after studying enology and viticulture, and working with Romanée-Conti and M Chapoutier. In 2019 Clément managed to buy a two hectare plot of older vines in Manicle - a small mountain appellation at the southern apex of the Jura mountains - where you can find Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. His main vineyard, with all his Chardonnay is a clos, surrounded by a wall. It's relatively flat with a slight dip in the middle - like a combe in Burgundy. He also owns a south facing block, with 70 year old massale selection of Pinot Fine. He farms both plots organically. His winemaking is traditionally Burgundian: all the fruit is handpicked, Clément wants intact grapes and stems allowing a gentle press, minimising maceration so he can keep fruit purity. He ferments mostly in used oak with natural yeasts and ages in 1-3 year old Burgundy barrels. We can’t wait to see how this ambitious new project develops.