Sometimes, it only takes a few glasses to realize that you’ve stumbled upon a truly exceptional winery. That was exactly how we felt about Pascal Théreau’s wines.

There are wineries that immediately impress with their rhetoric, presentation, or storytelling. And then there are winemakers like Pascal Théreau, who simply prefer to let the wines speak for themselves. Our visit to Domaine de la Patelle in Arbois was clearly one of those experiences that moved us with its sincerity.

Pascal Théreau does not come from the traditional wine-making world. His transition to winemaking tells a rather beautiful story: a deep desire to work the land, to craft honest wines, and to make wine without artifice or pretense. And this is immediately evident in the way he welcomes visitors, talks about his vineyards, and presents his wines. There is great simplicity, immense kindness, and above all, a humility that has become almost rare in the world of wine.

In 2021, Pascal decided to start his own small winery by taking over a few vineyards in Arbois after a highly instructive stint with Stéphane Tissot. Then, in 2022, he acquired the land and winery of Domaine des Bodines, which had been farmed organically for over 15 years, reaffirming his commitment to wines that respect nature.

Here, the wines never seek to impress with power or technical showmanship. They are straightforward, honest, and unpretentious—in the best sense of the word. These are wines that don’t try to show off; they simply make you want to drink them.

The Arbois terroir comes through naturally in the estate’s white wines. The 2022 "Le Kiosque" Chardonnay immediately won us over with its balance between tension and texture. A lively, precise, yet very charming wine, with a body that remains fluid and easy to drink. The same sensation is found in the 2023 "Bodillon" Savagnin, energetic and textured, with that Jura freshness we love so much and a real sense of depth on the palate.

The reds also completely won us over. The 2023 Trousseau “Bout d’vin” is irresistibly drinkable, with vibrant fruit, great finesse, and a real sense of purity. As for the 2022 Pinot Noir “Dévers,” it particularly impressed us with its silky texture and delicate minerality.

What stands out most about Domaine de la Patelle is this sense of constant balance. Nothing feels forced. Pascal Théreau works hard in the vineyards, vinifies with great humility, and then lets the wines tell their own story.

And honestly, these are exactly the kinds of bottles we love to open… and then finish far too quickly.