Domaine Jean Dauvissat carries seven generations of family history, with the estate in the family since 1899. Today, Sébastien Dauvissat leads the domaine from the cellar beneath the 17th-century family home on the road to Chichée — a setting that reflects the age, depth and continuity of this historic property. Formal bottling began in 1963 on a very small scale and expanded steadily through the 1970s as Jean increased production from a few hundred bottles to around 3,000 per year. As the wines grew in reputation, production rose to approximately 50,000 bottles annually, with all wines now estate-bottled rather than sold to négociants. Following Jean’s passing, Sébastien and his mother, Evelyne, continued the work with a clear commitment to preserving the domaine’s identity and style.

The vineyard holdings cover just under 10 hectares, all on classic Kimmeridgian limestone. The Premier Cru parcels enjoy a full southeast exposure, while the village vines face northwest — all hillside sites marked by argilo-calcaire soils and small stones that promote excellent drainage. Yields vary naturally with vine age and vintage: village parcels may reach around 60 hL/ha in generous years, while the Premier Crus sit closer to 45–50 hL/ha. The oldest vines in Vaillons, many more than 65 years old, often produce less than 25 hL/ha, giving a particularly concentrated expression. Most other parcels are planted to vines between 20 and 40 years of age.

In the cellar, the domaine balances modern equipment with a traditional Chablisienne sensibility. Fermentation and élevage for the village and many Premier Cru wines take place mainly in stainless steel to preserve purity and tension. The old-vine cuvée from Vaillons receives partial barrel fermentation and ageing, with around 25% new oak used — not to add overt flavour, but to bring subtle breadth and structure. Depending on the vintage and yields, certain other Premier Crus may also see a portion of barrel maturation. All wines are typically bottled after 18 to 20 months, allowing time for the lees to integrate and the mineral character of each site to settle into focus.

Today, Domaine Jean Dauvissat represents a thoughtful balance of history, precision and restraint. The wines remain true to their origins — bright, mineral and classical — shaped by the clarity of Kimmeridgian limestone, careful farming and a quiet dedication to craftsmanship passed down through generations.