Domaine Jaeger-Defaix began in 2002, when Hélène Jaeger-Defaix took over a parcel of Rully premier cru that had belonged to her great-aunt. Her family, the Niepces, have grown vines here since the sixteenth century, and her great-grandfather Henri Niepce was one of the figures who won Rully its appellation status. Hélène, an agronomist and oenologist married into the Defaix family of Chablis, farms the 6.5 hectare estate organically and works the soils by plough alone.
This is her Rully in white, Chardonnay grown on the limestone slopes of the Côte Chalonnaise. The style is bright and precise: white peach and citrus, a touch of hazelnut and gentle toast from a restrained hand with oak, and a chalky, mineral finish that hints at the Chablis influence in the household.
Serve it with roast chicken, poached fish, oysters or soft cheeses. Drinking well now and worth a year or two in the cellar.
Vintages may vary. Email us at hello@barrelandbatch.com.au if you would like confirmation.