Burgundy
Domaine Chandon de Briailles is one of the historic estates of the Côte de Beaune and an early reference for biodynamic Burgundy. Owned by the de Nicolaÿ family since the 19th century, the domaine farms vineyards across Savigny-lès-Beaune, Pernand-Vergelesses, Corton and Corton-Charlemagne.
The identity of Domaine Chandon de Briailles is closely tied to the northern Côte de Beaune, particularly Savigny-lès-Beaune and Pernand-Vergelesses, where the domaine has established itself as one of the leading references for biodynamic Burgundy.
The estate farms a wide range of appellations across Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, including Corton Grand Cru and Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru. Parcels such as Bressandes, Clos du Roi and Maréchaudes each bring a different interpretation of Grand Cru Burgundy, combining structure, freshness and ageing potential.
Savigny-lès-Beaune remains the historic center of the domaine, producing wines marked by finesse, floral aromatics and moderate extraction. In Pernand-Vergelesses, cooler exposures and limestone-rich soils contribute greater tension and precision. The domaine also produces Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru, where Chardonnay develops a more vertical and mineral profile shaped by altitude and chalky soils.
Domaine Chandon de Briailles began converting to biodynamic farming in 2005 and received Demeter certification in 2011, making it one of the early adopters of biodynamics in the Côte de Beaune.
The vineyard approach is centred on preserving soil vitality and natural balance. Herbicides are not used, vineyard work follows biodynamic principles and several parcels are ploughed by horse to avoid soil compaction and preserve microbial life.
In the cellar, whole-cluster fermentation plays a central role in the identity of the wines. Depending on the vintage and parcel, fermentations can include a high proportion of stems, bringing freshness, aromatic lift and structural precision. Vinifications rely exclusively on indigenous yeasts with gentle extraction and limited intervention throughout élevage. Oak usage remains restrained to preserve transparency and vineyard expression.
The Nicolaÿ family has overseen Domaine Chandon de Briailles since the 19th century. Under the direction of Claude and François de Nicolaÿ, the domaine became one of the important voices of biodynamic viticulture in Burgundy, helping establish a more vineyard-focused and low-intervention approach within the Côte de Beaune. Today, Chandon de Briailles continues to stand apart through wines that combine whole-cluster precision, freshness and a strong sense of place across some of Burgundy's most historic terroirs.
