Clos du Moulin aux Moines

A Millennium of History

In the heart of the Côte de Beaune, between the renowned villages of Meursault and Pommard, lies Clos du Moulin aux Moines. The story begins in 962, when monks from Cluny Abbey founded a monastery here. For over six centuries, the estate belonged to the Cistercian abbey of Cîteaux, before passing into private hands following the Revolution. The imposing main building overlooks three hectares of walled vineyards – a classic Burgundian "Clos", which gave the estate its name. The cellars date from the 11th and 15th centuries; here the wines mature as they have for generations.

Biodynamics and Tradition

Since 2008, the estate has been under new management and more quality-focused than ever. Willy Roulendes has converted all 16 hectares to biodynamic viticulture. Work in the vineyard is carried out by hand or with the help of horses – chemicals and heavy machinery have no place here. This careful stewardship is evident in the vitality of the vines and the complexity of the wines. In 2020, Michael Schwab joined to support the daily work. Boris Champy works with similar conviction in the Hautes-Côtes de Beaune.

Four Monopoly Vineyard Sites

Particularly noteworthy are the estate's four monopoly vineyard sites – vineyards that belong exclusively to this producer. The Pommard Clos de Orgelot covers just one hectare and produces spicy, meaty Pinot Noir. The Clos du Moulin aux Moines itself, with vines from the 1950s, is just reaching its peak. From the same vineyard site also comes a Chardonnay, which stylistically recalls the neighbouring Meursault. The proximity to the great white appellations unmistakably shapes these wines.

Classical Burgundian Winemaking

In the cellar, work follows strict tradition. Red grapes ferment in large wooden vats or concrete; whites in small wooden barrels. For ageing, alongside classical barriques, increasingly larger casks of around 1000 litres are used. New oak is now rarely employed – Willy wants to showcase the clear, floral and fruity aromas, not mask them with toasted oak notes. Depending on the appellation and vintage, the wines mature for 12 to 18 months. The adjustments he makes are not dramatic, but they leave a distinct mark on quality. Comparable elegance can be found with Rémi Jobard in Meursault.

An Insider's Tip with Potential

Despite its historical significance and outstanding quality, Clos du Moulin aux Moines paradoxically remains an insider's tip. The wines have something timeless about them: Burgundian elegance without ostentation, depth without heaviness. Those who buy here get Burgundy as it should be – honest, crafted and full of history.