Coche Bizouard
History and Background
Domaine Coche-Bizouard, located in Meursault, Burgundy, France, has a history that dates back to the mid-20th century. The estate is known for its exceptional white wines, particularly its Meursaults, which reflect the unique terroir of the region. From the ’20 vintage the name of the domaine changed from Coche-Bizouard to Fabien Coche. The Coche family is well known in Burgundy: Raphaël Coche-Dury is a cousin, and the two domaines were one until they split in 1949.
Vineyards and Terroir
Domaine Coche-Bizouard's (Fabien Coche) vineyards are located in the Côte de Beaune region of Burgundy, France, covering approximately 12 hectares:
Soil Composition: The soils are a mix of limestone and clay, providing excellent drainage and enhancing the minerality of the wines.
Grape Varieties: The estate primarily grows Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, producing wines that reflect the elegance and complexity of Meursault and surrounding appellations.
Wine Style and Production
Coche Bizouard's wines showcase a refined blend of elegance and complexity. These wines often feature robust flavors of blackcurrant and plum, accented by a rich array of spices. Typical aromatic notes include tobacco and cedar, contributing to a rounded and engaging profile.
At Coche Bizouard, the winemaking approach marries traditional methods with modern innovation, aimed at fully expressing the distinct characteristics of their terroir. The estate is committed to sustainable and organic viticultural practices, which include meticulous hand-harvesting and selective green harvesting. These practices are integral to their philosophy of enhancing the intrinsic qualities of the grapes while maintaining environmental integrity.
Reputation
Coche Bizouard (Fabien Coche), a notable wine estate based in the prestigious Burgundy region of France, maintains a solid reputation for producing exceptional wines, particularly Chardonnay. This family-run domaine in Meursault is known for its meticulous vinification methods and careful vineyard management, practices that have been honed across generations.
The estate stands out in the crowded Burgundy landscape for several reasons. Firstly, its approach to winemaking emphasizes minimal intervention, allowing the varietal characteristics and terroir to shine through distinctively in the wine. The choice to use oak is particularly restrained, preventing the wood from overpowering the subtle flavors of the grape.
Secondly, Coche Bizouard's dedication to low yields ensures high-quality grapes, which result in wines with greater concentration and depth. This focus on quality over quantity is a cornerstone of their production philosophy.
Final Thoughts
Coche Bizouard (Fabien Coche), a distinguished wine producer based in Meursault, stands out due to its commitment to traditional winemaking practices combined with a modern touch. At the helm are Fabien and Elsa Bizouard, descendants of the acclaimed Coche family, who are dedicated to maintaining the legacy of producing profound and elegantly nuanced Chardonnays. Their vineyards are carefully nurtured, reflecting a deep respect for terroir with a focus on organic principles, enhancing the unique characteristics of each vintage. Notably, their meticulous approach has garnered international respect and acclaim, ensuring their wines are esteemed in both domestic and global markets. The distinct clarity and precision of their wines capture the essence of Meursault, making Coche Bizouard a respected and sought-after name among fine wine enthusiasts.