Grafe Lecocq
Summary
Grafe Lecocq is a traditional Burgundian négociant based in Chambolle-Musigny that sources grapes and wines from various growers across the limestone-rich terroirs of Côte de Nuits and Côte de Beaune to produce classic Pinot Noir and Chardonnay bottlings. Their winemaking adheres to established regional practices, with reds typically fermented and aged in French oak barrels and whites receiving limited oak contact, creating wines that faithfully represent the character of each appellation without experimental techniques.
Heritage & Leadership
Grafe Lecocq operates as a négociant house in Burgundy, France. As a négociant, the company purchases grapes, must, or wines from various growers throughout the Burgundy region, then vinifies, ages, and bottles these wines under their own label. The business model follows the traditional Burgundian négociant system that has been integral to the region's wine trade for centuries.
While the company maintains operations in Burgundy, specific details about its founding date, ownership structure, and leadership transitions remain part of their private business history. The company continues to function within the established framework of Burgundy's wine trade, where négociants play a crucial role in bringing wines from smaller growers to market.
Vineyards & Wines
As a négociant, Grafe Lecocq sources grapes and wines from across Burgundy's diverse appellations rather than exclusively owning vineyards. Their portfolio includes wines from various Burgundian appellations, spanning both the Côte de Nuits and Côte de Beaune. The company works with the region's primary grape varieties—Pinot Noir for red wines and Chardonnay for white wines—in accordance with appellation regulations.
The wines produced reflect the traditional characteristics of their respective appellations, with each bottling representing the specific terroir of its origin. Burgundy's complex geology, featuring limestone-rich soils with varying compositions of clay, marl, and gravel, provides the foundation for these wines' distinctive qualities.
Philosophy & Practice
Grafe Lecocq follows the established practices of Burgundian winemaking, which emphasizes respect for terroir and traditional production methods. As a négociant, their approach involves careful selection of source materials and attention to proper vinification techniques appropriate to each appellation.
The winemaking process adheres to regional standards, with red wines typically undergoing fermentation followed by aging in French oak barrels. White wines generally see more limited oak contact, preserving the fresh fruit characteristics while developing complexity through careful maturation.
The company operates within the structured appellation system of Burgundy, producing wines that conform to the established regulations governing viticulture and winemaking practices in each designated area. This system, with its emphasis on place of origin, forms the foundation of Burgundy's winemaking philosophy and guides the production decisions at Grafe Lecocq.