Château Jonc-Blanc 2005

Isabelle Carles and Franck Pascal, who moved to Vélines in 2000, have chosen to produce pure, sulfur-free wines that are both easy to drink and fruity—wines meant to be enjoyed. Certified biodynamic since the 2011 vintage, the 19-hectare estate has always been managed according to the principles of organic farming, in order to preserve both the environment and their health. It was a wise decision, for without falling into the trap of “natural wine”—where fermentation runs wild—they produce a lovely, fairly consistent range of wines, crafted according to the terroir, without technical fuss, in the Burgundian style.

Located on clay-limestone soil overlooking the right bank of the Dordogne, this estate has emerged as one of the driving forces behind Bergerac’s revival. Isabelle Carles and Franck Pascal craft lively, pure wines with intense character and great freshness, which they offer at very affordable prices. The reds are sulfur-free and contain no additives, even at bottling. This approach is executed with precision: after aeration, the wines remain clean and well-structured, with perfect, natural acidity.