Join us as we take a closer look at an estate that breaks the mould of Burgundian classicism with the charming story of Paul Perarnau and Willy Roulendes. Having roamed prestigious vineyards, the two men reunited in 2019 with “the intention of bringing our friendship to life”. And their gamble has paid off, with a range of affordable wines and bottles in a modern style. 

Paul and Willy, two different paths for one great story of friendship 

Following many years apart, Paul Perarnau and Willy Roulendes reunited in 2019 to establish Domaine AMI (“ami” being French for “friend”). The estate is aptly named, as this venture stems from a story of friendship between the two men. Today, they head a five-hectare vineyard in Paris-l’Hôpital, near Les Maranges, west of Santenay in Burgundy.

On one hand, there’s Willy Roulendes, who lovingly tends the vines. After completing his studies in agronomy in Montpellier, he returned to his homeland in 2005 to learn the ropes at Domaine de Montille, a prestigious estate in Volnay which was undergoing a rapid expansion at the time. There, working alongside Etienne de Montille, Willy learnt about biodynamic techniques and applied them while working on 16 hectares of vines. Three years on, he was appointed manager of the Clos du Moulin aux Moines in Auxey-Duresses. For the last 15 years or so, Willy has been enjoying success on the splendid terroirs of the Côte de Beaune. 

On the other hand, there’s Paul Perarnau, the “gentleman farmer”. His background is far more unusual. At first, Paul was drawn to finance which he discovered in Paris at Sciences Po, a research university in the social sciences, internationally recognised for the quality of its scientific output. He went on to hone his skills in London, working for a wine importer. Paul also refined his palate during his time spent in England. In 2012, driven by a desire to discover new things, he began learning the art of vineyard work alongside the talented Oronce de Beler at Maison Romane. Three years later, Paul joined Willy’s team at Clos du Moulin aux Moines, which marked the start of a great friendship. In 2015, he decided he needed a change of region and headed down to Provence, to work alongside the exceptional Dominique Hauvette in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. There, he discovered southern grape varieties such as Cinsault, Roussanne, Marsanne, Rolle, Syrah and Grenache. These grapes would have a profound influence on his approach to winegrowing. And lastly, Paul Perarnau became Sales Director of the Bruno Paillard Champagne house in Reims in 2016. Paul has definitely seen all there is to see in the trade! 

March 2019 signalled the beginning of a fantastic adventure with the creation of Domaine AMI. This is when Paul Perarnau and Willy Roulendes combined their talents to share their passion, each in their own way. 

Southern grape varieties planted in Burgundy: Grenache vs Pinot Noir

These two friends are not afraid to break the mould when it comes to their vines. They have dared break the traditional rules of one of the world’s most prestigious regions, renowned for its superb Pinot Noirs, Gamays, Chardonnays and Aligotés. Paul and Willy have played with southern grape varieties such as Grenache and Syrah, resulting in some rather atypical blends.

Naturally, all five hectares of Domaine AMI are cultivated according to organic principles. The domain also sets itself apart through its trading activity with winegrowers who also cultivate their vines using organic methods. Paul and Willy’s extensive experience means that they have become experts natural winemaking techniques, which they use in the winery with no chemical fertilisers or additives. 

Domaine AMI can pride itself on cultivating excellent wine from superb Burgundy terroirs such as Saint Romain, Pernand Vergelesses, Maranges, Pommard and Beaune. They even produce premier crus such as Maranges Premier Cru Clos Roussots, Santenay Premier Cru Passe Temps and Beaune Premier Cru Champimonts. In short, an impressive mosaic of terroirs! 

The young and dynamic duo offers cuvées at affordable prices. The brand’s labels are vibrant and include plenty of puns: “Amiami Vice” (a reference to the ’80s television series) is undoubtedly our favourite. 

Together, they reflect the image of Burgundy as it reinvents itself.

Wines for sale on iDealwine 

• Bourgogne Homard Bleu: A delightful red wine with complex notes of red and black fruit. 
• Bourgogne Homard d’Or: A white wine bursting with white fruit aromas. 
• Bourgogne Neige de Printemps: A superb Pinot Noir, fruity and crisp, perfectly balanced and elegant.
• Côte de Beaune Les Monsnières: A typically Burgundian Chardonnay offering a perfect balance of creaminess and tautness.
• Hautes-Côtes de Beaune: An outstanding Pinot Noir with an exceptional aromatic structure.
• Maranges Premier Cru La Fussière: A seductive, warm and pleasant wine displaying great freshness and a subtle balance of richness and finesse.
• Pernand-Vergelesses: A magnificent Chardonnay packed with notes of butter and vanilla.
• Pommard Premier Cru: A Pommard with impeccable structure and balance.
• Saint-Romain: A unique blend of terroir, natural vinification methods and genuine friendship, reflected in a lively, perfectly controlled wine.
• Vin de France Ami Ami Vice: A unique refreshing and flavoursome blend of Pinot Noir and Aligoté.
• Vin de France Gaminot: An exquisite blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Gamay and Aligoté.

AMIcably Yours,

iDealwine