Chandon de Briailles: A Legacy of Iconic Winemaking in Burgundy The de Nicolay Family & Nearly 200 Years of Winemaking 

Nestled in the heart of Côte de Beaune, Burgundy, Domaine Chandon de Briailles is a historic estate that has been crafting world-class wines since 1834. Owned and managed by the de Nicolay family for nearly two centuries, the domaine has become a beacon of biodynamic winemaking, producing some of the most expressive Pinot Noir and Chardonnay in the region. 

Today, Claude and François de Nicolay lead the estate with a commitment to sustainable viticulture, whole-cluster fermentation, and low-intervention winemaking. Their philosophy? Let the terroir speak. As François de Nicolay explains:

"Since 2005, we’ve seen a profound transformation in our vineyards. The vines grow differently, the leaves are more alive, and the grapes at harvest are better balanced with acidity. The aromas are purer, the wines more precise." (source)

The Unique Terroir of Chandon de Briailles 

The estate spans 13.7 hectares across three of Burgundy’s most esteemed appellations:

- Savigny-lès-Beaune 1er Cru – Elegant, refined, and structured Pinot Noir.

- Pernand-Vergelesses 1er Cru Île des Vergelesses – A hidden gem of white and red Burgundy, offering depth and minerality.

- Corton Grand Cru – The pinnacle of power and longevity, producing world-class Pinot Noir.

The domaine’s commitment to biodynamic farming since 2005 (and Demeter-certified since 2011) ensures that each vineyard reflects the unique characteristics of its soil and climate, free from chemical intervention.

How World Wars Shaped Burgundy’s Vineyards 

Like many historic wineries, Chandon de Briailles was profoundly impacted by World War I and World War II. The wars drained Burgundy of its labor force, with vineyard workers conscripted to fight, leading to severe labor shortages. During World War II, many estates, including Chandon de Briailles, suffered from the requisitioning of wine stocks by occupying forces.

Despite these hardships, the winemakers of Burgundy persisted, preserving their terroirs and techniques. This resilience is a defining trait of Chandon de Briailles today—a winery that refuses to compromise on quality, no matter the challenge.

Climate Change & The Future of Burgundy 

In the modern era, climate change presents new challenges for winemakers across Burgundy. Warmer temperatures have led to:

- Earlier harvests – Some as much as three weeks ahead of historical norms.

- Increased drought stress – Affecting vine health and water retention in the soil.

- Unpredictable frost and hail – Like the devastating April 2021 frost, which caused Burgundy’s lowest wine production since WWII.

François de Nicolay has been vocal about these changes 

"We’ve had to rethink everything—pruning techniques, vineyard exposure, even exploring drought-resistant rootstocks. The goal is to preserve balance, freshness, and elegance in our wines despite the climate’s unpredictability."

To adapt, Chandon de Briailles is experimenting with regenerative agriculture, reducing sulfur use, and implementing precision viticulture, all while staying true to traditional Burgundian craftsmanship.

Accolades & What the Press Says About Chandon de Briailles 

Chandon de Briailles has earned critical acclaim, with reviews from top wine publications: 

The Wine Advocate – "Elegant, terroir-driven wines with incredible purity. 90+ points across multiple vintages."

Le Guide Hachette des Vins – "1-star rating for Pernand-Vergelesses 1er Cru Île des Vergelesses."

Decanter Magazine – "One of the most exciting biodynamic estates in Burgundy today."

Experience Burgundy Without Compromise 

Chandon de Briailles represents the past, present, and future of Burgundy, an estate that honours tradition, adapts to the present, and pushes boundaries for the future. Their wines offer a true taste of Côte de Beaune, crafted with passion, precision, and purpose.

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