Comte Senard, Domaine
Summary
Domaine Comte Senard is a fifth-generation family estate in Aloxe-Corton with 9 hectares of vineyards, specializing in Pinot Noir from nine Grand Cru climats across the Hill of Corton's varied clay-limestone soils and elevations. Their winemaking balances traditional Burgundian methods—hand harvesting, partial whole-cluster fermentation, and patient maturation—with a multi-generational commitment to authentic terroir expression rather than following trends.
Heritage & Leadership
Domaine Comte Senard traces its origins to 1857 when Jules Senard established the estate in Aloxe-Corton, at the heart of Burgundy's Côte de Beaune. The domain has remained in family hands through five generations, with each steward contributing to its development while maintaining its connection to the historic terroirs of Corton. Following Philippe Senard's tenure, his daughter Lorraine Senard assumed leadership in 2005, becoming the fifth generation to guide the family estate.
The domaine's headquarters occupies a 13th-century cellar in Aloxe-Corton, providing both historical context and practical functionality for wine production. Under Lorraine's direction, the estate has expanded its visitor experience with the addition of La Table du Comte Senard, a restaurant and tasting venue that showcases the domaine's wines alongside regional cuisine. This integration of wine and gastronomy reflects the family's commitment to presenting their wines in cultural context.
Vineyards & Wines
Domaine Comte Senard manages approximately 9 hectares of vineyards, with significant holdings concentrated on the Hill of Corton. The estate possesses parcels in nine Corton Grand Cru climats, including Corton Bressandes, Corton Clos des Meix, Corton Paulandes, and Corton Clos du Roi. These vineyards benefit from the hill's varied exposures and elevations ranging from 250 to 330 meters above sea level.
The soils of the Corton hillside transition from clay-limestone at lower elevations to more limestone-dominant compositions higher up, providing distinct expressions across the different climats. The domaine's vines average 45 years of age, with some parcels containing vines over 70 years old. While Pinot Noir dominates the plantings, the estate also cultivates Chardonnay for its Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru.
Beyond the grand crus, the domaine produces wines from premier cru vineyards in Aloxe-Corton, including Les Valozières and Les Maréchaudes. The portfolio is completed by village-level offerings from Aloxe-Corton and Savigny-lès-Beaune, providing a comprehensive expression of the local terroir.
Philosophy & Practice
Domaine Comte Senard adheres to traditional Burgundian winemaking techniques while incorporating modern precision where beneficial. In the vineyards, the team practices sustainable viticulture with meticulous canopy management and yield control to ensure optimal fruit quality. Harvest is conducted by hand, with careful sorting both in the vineyard and at the winery.
For red wine production, the domaine employs partial whole-cluster fermentation depending on the vintage and vineyard site. Fermentations occur in temperature-controlled vats with gentle extraction methods to preserve fruit purity and terroir expression. The wines mature in French oak barrels for 15-18 months, with new oak usage varying from 20% for village wines to 50% for grand crus.
White wines undergo barrel fermentation and aging on fine lees with regular bâtonnage (lees stirring) during the early months. The domaine's cellaring approach emphasizes patience, allowing wines to develop complexity before release. This measured approach to winemaking reflects the family's multi-generational perspective, prioritizing authentic terroir expression over short-term trends.