Francois de Nicolay
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Country of Origin: France
Location: Savigny-les-Beaune, Côte de Beaune
People: Francois de Nicolay, Owner & Winemaker
Viticulture: Certified Biodynamic
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François de Nicolay is a name that commands deep respect in Burgundy. Best known for his work alongside his sister Claude at the historic Domaine Chandon de Briailles—a family estate dating back to 1834—François has also built a reputation for exceptional, small-batch wines under his eponymous négoce label. These bottlings reflect the same integrity, precision, and commitment to natural farming that define his domaine work, but allow him to explore terroirs beyond the estate’s holdings.
The François de Nicolay wines are produced from biodynamically farmed grapes sourced from trusted growers in Burgundy. Every vineyard is carefully selected, and François personally inspects the fruit at véraison and again at harvest, ensuring only the healthiest, most balanced grapes make the cut. This attention to detail is critical, as the wines are made without added yeasts, sulfites, or other interventions—just pure, unadulterated grape must undergoing a slow, natural transformation.
Vinification and élevage take place in their ancient cellar in Savigny-lès-Beaune. Bottling is done by hand using the traditional chèvre à deux becs method, preserving both freshness and the full expression of terroir. The resulting wines are vibrant, pure, and alive. Though limited in quantity, they are increasingly sought after for their precision, energy, and the thoughtful, honest winemaking behind each bottle.