Wine Theo Dancer Roc Breia Chardonnay, 2022

Roc Breïa – A New Vision for Mâconnais Terroir

Roc Breïa is the ambitious personal project of Théo Dancer, the latest generation of the renowned Dancer family, known for their exceptional wines from Chassagne-Montrachet. While Théo continues to work alongside his father, Vincent Dancer, at the family domaine, he has also ventured into new territories, crafting wines outside the Côte d’Or under the Roc Breïa label. This project represents an exciting departure from tradition, embracing new vineyard sites, innovative practices, and a commitment to revitalizing the land.

The Vineyard & Philosophy

The Roc Breïa vineyard is a 10.5-hectare plot located in Mâcon-Bray, a subregion within the Mâconnais. Historically, Mâcon is best known for its Chardonnay, but Théo saw the potential for crafting both Pinot Noir and Chardonnay that highlight the region’s finesse and minerality. The vineyard was previously farmed conventionally, and when Théo first saw it, he found a site that lacked vitality. Rather than seeing this as a setback, he embraced it as a blank slate, allowing him to rejuvenate the soil using sustainable and organic farming methods learned from his father.

Unlike the Côte d’Or, where domaines often produce multiple cuvées, Roc Breïa focuses on just two wines:

• A Chardonnay from 60+ year-old vines
• A Pinot Noir from 35+ year-old vines

This streamlined approach allows for a deep exploration of terroir while maintaining a singular focus on quality and expression.

Winemaking Approach

Théo ferments and ages Roc Breïa wines in the family cellars in Chassagne-Montrachet, labeling them as Vin de France due to their Mâconnais origin. His winemaking philosophy is defined by:

• Early harvesting (11-11.5% ABV) to preserve freshness and precision
• Whole-cluster fermentation (50% for Pinot Noir), emphasizing structure and aromatic complexity
• Minimal intervention, including natural fermentations and low sulfur use
• Ageing in neutral vessels, primarily used 500L oak barrels, to maintain purity and transparency of terroir
• No fining or filtration, allowing the wines to fully express their character

The Wines of Roc Breïa

Roc Breïa Pinot Noir (Mâcon, Burgundy)

A full-bodied red that balances depth and energy. The 2022 vintage was described by William Kelley as "deep and muscular, with aromas of plummy fruit and sweet spices, framed by sweet, powdery tannins." The wine is both generous and structured, with a vibrant acidity that ensures longevity.

Roc Breïa Chardonnay

Sourced from old vines in Mâcon-Bray, this Chardonnay showcases precision and minerality, reflecting Théo’s careful, hands-off winemaking. The early picking preserves freshness, while ageing in neutral oak adds texture without overpowering the wine’s delicate citrus and floral notes.

A Bold New Chapter for Burgundy

Roc Breïa is a testament to Théo Dancer’s passion for exploration and his dedication to Burgundy’s evolving identity. By breathing new life into forgotten terroirs and maintaining a deep respect for tradition, he has created a project that bridges the past and future of Burgundian winemaking. With tiny production volumes (sometimes as little as 300 cases per wine), Roc Breïa remains an artisanal gem, sought after by collectors and wine enthusiasts who appreciate purity, precision, and the pursuit of excellence.