Sylvain Pataille

History of Domaine Sylvain Pataille

The history of Domaine Sylvain Pataille is the captivating story of a passion that has evolved since the man’s own youth. A trained consulting oenologist, Sylvain Pataille began his winemaking journey in 1999 by taking on one hectare of leased vines. His ambition: to create Burgundy wines that reveal elegance and authenticity, specifically within the Marsannay appellation.

Over the years, the estate has experienced remarkable expansion, growing from 2 to 4 hectares between 2000 and 2011, culminating in Sylvain Pataille’s permanent establishment at the estate in 2011. The cultivated area reached 10 hectares in 2002, and the estate has now tended a 17-hectare vineyard since 2008, with conversion to Ecocert-certified organic farming.

Terroir and Vine Characteristics at Domaine Sylvain Pataille

The vineyards of Domaine Sylvain Pataille, spread across 17 hectares, embody deep respect for the soil and grapes. The Marsannay terroir, with its climate, clay-limestone soil and ideal exposure, provides the perfect setting for growing grapes of exceptional quality. The estate’s commitment to organic farming since 2008 reflects its desire to preserve the natural balance and richness of the terroir.

Hand harvesting and gentle pressing are the preferred practices, underlining the desire to preserve the grapes’ intrinsic quality. Ageing in barrel, with new oak limited to 30%, lasts 15 to 18 months, allowing the terroir’s unique characteristics to be fully expressed in the wines.

Winemaking at Domaine Sylvain Pataille

Winemaking at Domaine Sylvain Pataille is an ode to simplicity and purity. Traditional methods, with as little intervention as possible, are favoured. Gentle pressing, natural fermentations and a minimal approach to inputs characterise the process, with the aim of preserving the very essence of the grape.

Wine Profiles of Domaine Sylvain Pataille

The cuvées of Domaine Sylvain Pataille, whether white, red or rosé, reflect exceptional delicacy: they stand out for their freshness, finesse and magnificent elegance!

Le Clos du Roi: Marsannay Clos du Roy Red 2021 ranks among Marsannay's exceptional terroirs, characterised by its fine limestone soils, often a hallmark of great wines. Sylvain Pataille meticulously managed this parcel in the 2021 vintage, creating a harmonious, elegant wine with remarkable minerality. A true nectar for lovers of exceptional wines. 100% Pinot Noir from the most prestigious parcel. Enjoy now through 2030. The name "Clos du Roy" originates from King Louis XI of France taking possession of these unique parcels in 1477.

The colour is a beautiful garnet. On the nose, the bouquet immediately charms with captivating notes of peony and violet, accompanied by aromas of red berries, cherry and raspberry, all sprinkled with sweet spices. On the palate, a silky texture envelops perfectly ripe tannins and a generous body: balanced and highly complex, this wine lingers long on the finish for our greatest pleasure. 

Le Chapitre: Initially listed under the Bourgogne appellation, this red wine from Clos du Chapitre was reclassified under the Marsannay appellation from 2019. Its Pinot Noir comes from a small parcel of old vines located in the northern part of the wine-growing area. These vines are meticulously tended, grown according to certified organic principles and using biodynamic methods. They draw their essential nutrients from poor, stony soils composed of limestone, marl and clay. Sylvain Pataille, a trained oenologist, is dedicated to meticulous, low-intervention winemaking, followed by ageing in barrels for a year and a half. The proportion of new oak is around 35%. We recommend allowing this wine to age in the cellar for at least five years before tasting it. At that point, it will reveal an alluring aromatic complexity. Both full-bodied and delicate, it will unveil notes of sweet spices, red berries, cherry eau-de-vie and flowers.

Other Great Wines from Marsannay 

Other prestigious estates produce delicious wines under the Marsannay appellation: Geantet Pansiot, Jean Yves Bizot, Alain Guyard, Bruno Clair, Bart… 

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