Winemaker profiles, Jean-François Chapelle at Domaine Chapelle
- Categories :
- Wine
- Domaine Chapelle
- Gourmet Odyssey
How long have you been a winemaker?
I have been a winemaker for only a relatively short time, the 2015 vintage being my 28th harvest at the family winery.
At the start of our career in wine, Yvette and I travelled professionally in other winemaking regions of France, before returning to work with my parents, Roger & Colette, in 1987.
What is your best memory in the vineyard or cellar?
The memory that I have long time kept in mind is not really a good one, but a very strong one. The sudden death of my father in March 1991 left me terribly alone.
I remember the week after his death being stood there in the cellar in front of my vats, crying like a child as I conducted the technical analysis of the last harvest, something that we had always done together since 1987.
And then life continues, and a new way of doing things evolves.
For the 2015 vintage, what is at present your favourite wine and why?
For a long time, I've had a preference for the Santenay La Comme Premier Cru. I like its structure, its depth, its tannic side which sets in before being able to appreciate all of its complexity.
For 2015 I'll also go with La Comme.
What are your projects or challenges for 2016?
The big news at the winery for 2016 and particularly in 2017 is that our youngest son Simon, born in 1986, has decided to study to be a winemaker, to continue in partnership with his brother, sister and cousins, the great adventure at Domaine Chapelle!
A question that our clients often ask. What does a winemaker do when he has a little time to himself?
Our work is a profession that we do out of passion, so we don't have the same idea of "free time" as many!
But to relax, Yvette and I like to travel and walk. At the end of August 2015, we managed to get away for a little to wander in the Vosges mountains.
Comments
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Dear Monsieur Jean-Francois
It was a pleasure to meet you in May to collect our wine which is now safely stored.
As you promised the 2011 La Comme is delightful and will only be consumed on very special occasions.
the first bottle we shared with my wife and family last weekend. The first bottle of Le Gravieres 2012 will be taken to Oxford to be shared (sparingly) with my 7 friends on our annual golf holiday.
Many thanks for your time and trouble I must congratulate you on your skill and talent in making your wine.
Yours Sincerely
Martyn Channon ( Rye )
Envoyé le Jeudi 09 June 2016 by Martyn Channon