We came across this fine producer, thanks to Vincent Dureuil. Dureuil is one of the finest growers in Burgundy, so when he told us he loved Theulot Juillot’s wines and preferred them to better-known addresses of the Côte Chalonnaise, we didn’t waste time getting in touch. Owners Nathalie and Jean-Claude Theulot are lovely, humble vignerons. From their base in Mercurey–one of the beating hearts of the Côte Chalonnaise–they craft a range of red and white Burgundies full of heart and soul. All quality practices you would expect from an International Fine Wines grower are celebrated here, from high-quality vine genetics and rootstocks to organic viticulture and low yields. Destemming, gentle extractions and moderate use of new oak showcase the graceful side of the appellation. Jasper Morris MW notes in Inside Burgundy that “the red wines of Mercurey can be the deepest, firmest and richest reds of the Côte Chalonnaise”. You can certainly feel that intensity in Theulot’s wines, yet the reds carry all the vibrancy, charm and character that make Burgundy the promised land for Pinot Noir. While we have previously focused on the domaine’s reds, last year we tasted the full range of white wines (and could not resist). Just 20% of Mercurey vineyards are devoted to white grapes and it is thanks to the quality of wines like Theulot’s that Chardonnay has been making up good ground. These are engaging whites of natural generosity tempered by lively freshness and a distinct salty-mineral tone. As was the case for the rest of the region, 2022 was a terrific year for Mercurey, and Nathalie Theulot believes this year’s wines to be their finest yet. They are certainly the most impressive we have tasted. And, while much of Burgundy has entered a complicated relationship with value, the pricing here remains very reasonable. We recommend everything without hesitation. PS: This grower’s name is not that easy to pronounce. Try “tew-lo jwee-yo.” Or say it however you like–it’s the wine in the bottle that counts!