Etienne Sauzet
Summary
Etienne Sauzet is a third-generation family estate in Puligny-Montrachet producing white Burgundy from 9 hectares of holdings, including parcels in four Grand Crus and seven Premier Crus on the limestone-rich soils of the Côte de Beaune. The biodynamic-certified domaine employs traditional methods including whole-cluster pressing, barrel fermentation, and precise oak aging protocols of 11-18 months with 15-40% new oak to express each vineyard's distinct character.
Heritage & Leadership
Etienne Sauzet established his domaine in Puligny-Montrachet in the 1920s, building the foundation through strategic vineyard acquisitions. The estate passed to his daughter Jeanine and her husband Gérard Boudot in 1975. Their daughter Emilie Boudot, representing the third generation, now directs operations alongside her husband Benoît Riffault. The transition occurred in 2009, maintaining familial continuity in leadership while implementing technical innovations in both vineyard and cellar management.
Vineyards & Wines
The domaine encompasses 9 hectares of vineyards concentrated in Puligny-Montrachet, including holdings in four Grand Cru sites: Bâtard-Montrachet, Bienvenues-Bâtard-Montrachet, Chevalier-Montrachet, and Montrachet. Their Premier Cru portfolio comprises parcels in Les Combettes, Les Folatières, Les Referts, La Garenne, Champ-Canet, Les Perrières, and Les Pucelles. The vineyards sit on limestone-rich soils characteristic of the Côte de Beaune, with varying proportions of clay and stone depending on the plot. Vines average 40 years of age across the holdings.
Philosophy & Practice
The domaine operates under biodynamic certification, obtained in 2009. Vineyard practices include high-density planting at 10,000 vines per hectare. Harvest is conducted manually with careful grape selection. Vinification involves whole-cluster pressing, with fermentation in French oak barrels. White wines age for 11-18 months in oak, with new barrel usage varying from 15% for village wines to 40% for Grand Crus. The cellar maintains strict temperature control during aging and minimal batonnage based on vintage conditions.