An Introduction to Domaine Faiveley

Founded in 1825, Domaine Faiveley is without a doubt one of the greatest Burgundy estates. In 2007, François retired and passed the torch down to his son and the next generation of the family; Erwan. The Domaine has undergone an incredible transformation in such a short space of time with both Erwan at the helm. The 115-hectare Domaine is divided between a 78-hectares in Mercurey, and 37-hectares in the Côte d’Or, near the Head Offices in Nuits-Saint-Georges. Vineyard holdings have also expanded over the last 10 years, and their strong belief in the simple ethos that great grapes produce great wines, has resulted in the vineyards being run with tight precision where nothing is left to chance through a controlled and vigorous vineyard management program. Their aim for elegance and finesse is now being rewarded as each of their wines show true individuality, character and quality; a great reflection of their terroir.

 

Q & A

Describe yourself in 3 words…

Daring, Dreamer, Passionate.

 

How did you get started in the wine trade?

I have always had a passion for Burgundy and its wines. I took over from my father in 2005, and immediately invested in new facilities to continue the same quest for excellence as my forefathers.

 

Can you describe the Domaine Faiveley vineyards?

Located since 1825 in Nuits-Saint-Georges, Domaine Faiveley is one of the largest family-owned estates in Burgundy. It covers more than 120-hectares in the Côte de Nuits, Côte de Beaune, and Côte Chalonnaise with 12 Grands Crus and 25 Premiers Crus. I run the estate with my sister Eve: we represent the 7th generation of the family. Together, thanks to a sustainable viticulture, we are committed to producing fine wines combining strength, finesse & elegance and that reflect their terroir. In 2019, the estate obtained the HEV certification (level 3). We are thrilled to celebrate within 3 years the 200th birthday of Domaine Faiveley.

 

What goals in winemaking are you still working to achieve?

We sign wines with a great personality, with the right balance between strength, elegance, and finesse. In the vineyard as well as in the winery, we tend to carry out a work to minimize the impact on the environment, and to pass on to future generations a rich ecosystem giving raise to fine Burgundy wines.

 

Mindful winemaking is becoming increasingly important to our customers, is this something you actively employ at the winery?

Absolutely. In December 2019, the estate obtained the HEV certification (level 3). Being awarded HVE certification is an acknowledgement of the work undertaken daily by our teams and it goes without saying that we are very proud of this achievement! 

Driven by our principles of ensuring quality and authenticity for each vintage and wine, we are committed to a sustainable approach to viticulture. This approach attests to our close relationship with the Burgundian terroirs, our wish to preserve these terroirs and our desire to keep our environmental impact to a minimum. 

 

What are your thoughts on the perception of Burgundy in today’s fine wine market?

The Burgundian single-varietal model of viticulture is today particularly appreciated and recognised by wine lovers, critics, and professionals all around the world. We are very honoured by this and are committed to continuing this quest for excellence to participate in Burgundy’s influence and to offer wines that represent the diversity of our precious climats.

 

If you had to recommend just one of your wines to a customer, which would it be, and why?

The Corton “Clos des Cortons Faiveley” Grand Cru is our family domaine's flagship Monopole vineyard and a unique treasure in the landscape of Burgundy's Grands Crus. This plot has a particular sentimental connotation for our family as its one of the first plots Joseph Faiveley - 2nd generation - acquired in 1874.

The Corton Grand Cru 'Clos des Cortons Faiveley' Monopole is full-bodied and concentrated. It offers excellent potential for bottle age and will entice you with its strength, elegance, and aromatic persistency.

 

If you could make wine anywhere else in the world, where would it be?

California, obviously! I have a long friendship and history with America, a passion for its wines and people. As a Burgundian, I was looking to grow the best Pinot Noir and Chardonnay in the United States. My dream came true in January 2021 when John and Kathe Dyson – owners of Williams Selyem - gave me their trust. Our two families did a partnership to ensure the Williams Selyem winery continues to thrive for decades to come.

 

What is your favourite restaurant, and why?

Favourite restaurant... too difficult, there are too many I love!