Vougeraie, Domaine de la
Summary
Founded in 1999 by the Boisset family, Domaine de la Vougeraie operates a 40-45 hectare estate across both Côte de Nuits and Côte de Beaune, producing primarily Pinot Noir (70-75%) and Chardonnay from prestigious holdings including four Grand Crus and multiple Premier Crus. Their fully biodynamic approach since the mid-2000s, combined with traditional Burgundian winemaking techniques and minimal intervention, has helped this young estate rapidly establish itself among the region's quality leaders.
Heritage & Leadership
Domaine de la Vougeraie was founded in 1999 by Jean-Claude Boisset and his family, bringing together various vineyard holdings the family had acquired throughout Burgundy. The estate takes its name from the lieu-dit "La Vougeraie" in the commune of Vougeot, reflecting its Burgundian roots. The domaine was created by consolidating approximately 30 different parcels that the Boisset family had acquired over decades, forming a significant estate spanning both the Côte de Nuits and Côte de Beaune.
The domaine operates as part of the Boisset Collection, a family-owned wine group with Jean-Charles Boisset, son of founder Jean-Claude, serving as the head of the family business. In its formative years, Pascal Marchand played an influential role as an early winemaker, helping to establish the domaine's winemaking direction and style. Later, Pierre Vincent served as winemaker during the 2000s-2010s, further developing the estate's reputation for quality and terroir expression.
Vineyards & Wines
Domaine de la Vougeraie manages approximately 40-45 hectares of vineyards distributed across multiple communes in both the Côte de Nuits and Côte de Beaune. The estate holds several prestigious Grand Cru parcels, including sections of Bonnes Mares, Clos de Vougeot, Charmes-Chambertin, and Corton. Their vineyard portfolio also features significant Premier Cru holdings in Vougeot, Chambolle-Musigny, and Nuits-Saint-Georges.
Many of the domaine's vineyards feature older vines, with some exceeding 50 years of age, contributing to the concentration and complexity of their wines. The estate focuses exclusively on Burgundy's classic varieties: Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Their production encompasses both red and white wines across various appellations, with white wines representing approximately 25-30% of their total output. The domaine's flagship offerings include their Bonnes Mares Grand Cru, showcasing their finest terroirs.
Philosophy & Practice
Domaine de la Vougeraie has committed fully to biodynamic viticulture across their entire estate, receiving Demeter certification since the mid-2000s. This approach reflects their dedication to expressing the unique characteristics of each vineyard site while maintaining environmental harmony. All vineyards are harvested by hand, ensuring careful selection of fruit and minimal damage to the grapes.
In the cellar, the domaine employs traditional Burgundian winemaking techniques while following a minimal intervention philosophy. Their aging protocols typically involve the use of French oak barrels, with new oak percentages ranging from 25-50% for their premier and grand cru wines, adjusted according to the specific needs of each appellation and vintage. This balanced approach to oak aging allows for structural development while preserving the distinct terroir characteristics of each vineyard site.
The domaine holds numerous Grand Cru and Premier Cru designated vineyards, producing wines that reflect the diverse terroirs of their extensive holdings throughout Burgundy's most celebrated appellations.