Domaine de
La Soeur Cadette
The Youngest Sister
Named for Catherine Montanet—the "soeur cadette" (youngest sister) in her family—this domaine represents the quiet revolution of Vézelay. When Jean and Catherine planted their first vineyards in 1987, they were destined for the local cave coopérative. By 1999, they boldly converted to organic farming in a region where bulk wine was the norm [^38^].
Unable to fully express themselves within the coop system, the Montanets split off to create their own label, taking their vineyards with them. Their son Valentin joined in 2010, bringing fresh energy and launching the La Soeur Cadette négoce in 2016 [^32^][^38^].
Morvan's Lifted Hills
The vineyards sit deep in the Morvan mountains, where geological upheaval has exposed marl and limestone strata rich with fossilized marine deposits. While often compared to Chablis, Vézelay's soils are distinct—blue, gray, and red clays mixed with shallow limestone rather than pure Kimmeridgian chalk [^38^].
The climate is slightly cooler than Chablis, but excellent sun exposure creates a perfect equilibrium between generous fruit and deep mineral structure. A white-wine-only appellation since 1997, Vézelay has found its beacon in this estate [^32^].
Saint-Père
Recognition begins
Bold move in Yonne
New generation
La Soeur Cadette label
The Cooperative Exit
Started at the cave coopérative in 1987 with Bernard Raveneau as mentor. Left to establish independent identity and organic integrity, taking their 22 hectares with them [^38^].
Valentin's Vision
Now manages both Domaine de la Cadette and Montanet-Thoden. Expanded into négoce to include Mâcon, Chablis, Beaujolais, and Melon de Bourgogne while maintaining organic discipline [^32^][^35^].
Natural Discipline
Native fermentation, full malolactic, no chaptalization, minimal sulfur. Lunar calendar guidance. Light filtration at bottling. Certified organic, biodynamic practices [^35^].
"Refreshing, mineral-driven whites and reds—the most sincere expression of Vézelay terroir with grace and integrity."— On the Montanet philosophy
The Collection
Three labels, one philosophy: Domaine de la Cadette (estate), Montanet-Thoden (Catherine's maiden name), and La Soeur Cadette (négoce) [^32^][^36^].
La Châtelaine
The signature Vézelay Chardonnay. 20% aged in old barrels and foudre, 80% in tank. 8-10 months on lees. Unfiltered bottling. Saline minerality, crisp pear, apple blossom brilliance [^32^].
La Piècette
Named for a confused visitor mixing "pièce" and "feuillette." Assemblage from various parcels, aged in Chablis-style barrels. Rich, athletic structure with sweet celery notes and high acid [^36^].
L'Ermitage
80% Pinot Noir, 20% César (ancient Roman grape permitted only in Yonne). From steep south-facing slopes. Savoury, lingering finish with exotic spicy notes from the César addition [^32^].
Chablis
Purchased from certified organic vineyards. 10 months on lees in steel and used oak. No lees-stirring. Kieselguhr filtration. Lively, finesse-driven Chablis at remarkable value [^32^].
Juliénas
From 70-90 year-old vines in granitic soils. Whole bunch carbonic maceration, 9 months in 40hl foudre. Minimal sulfites, no fining or filtering. Pure cru Beaujolais energy [^32^].
Melon de Bourgogne
From original Burgundian plantings of this Loire grape. 30-year-old vines, direct press, 8-10 months on lees. One of the few making credible Melon de Bourgogne in Burgundy proper [^32^][^36^].