Jean-Marie Fourrier, Domaine
Summary
Domaine Jean-Marie Fourrier is a family-owned Burgundian estate in Gevrey-Chambertin with 9-10 hectares of limestone-rich vineyards, primarily producing Pinot Noir from old vines exceeding 60 years of age. Jean-Marie, who trained under Henri Jayer, maintains hands-on involvement throughout production, employing tailored whole-cluster fermentation, minimal racking, and limited filtration to preserve the authentic expression of each vineyard site.
Heritage & Leadership
Domaine Jean-Marie Fourrier is located in Gevrey-Chambertin in the Côte de Nuits district of Burgundy, France. The domaine was established in the early 20th century by the Fourrier family. Prior to Jean-Marie's leadership, the estate was known as Domaine Pernot-Fourrier.
Jean-Marie Fourrier assumed control of the family domaine in the 1990s, around 1994, representing the fourth generation of his family to manage the estate. Before taking the helm, Jean-Marie trained under Henri Jayer, one of Burgundy's most influential winemakers. Under Jean-Marie's direction, the domaine has maintained its traditional approach while incorporating techniques developed during his apprenticeship.
The domaine remains family-owned and operated, with Jean-Marie serving as both proprietor and winemaker, continuing the legacy established by his predecessors.
Vineyards & Wines
Domaine Jean-Marie Fourrier manages approximately 9-10 hectares of vineyards primarily in Gevrey-Chambertin. The estate's holdings include parcels in several premier cru and grand cru vineyards, including Clos Saint-Jacques, Chambolle-Musigny Les Gruenchers, and Griotte-Chambertin. Many of the domaine's parcels contain vines over 60 years old, contributing to the concentration and complexity of the wines.
The vineyards feature the limestone-based soils typical of the Côte de Nuits region, providing the mineral foundation that characterizes wines from this area. This terroir, combined with the domaine's old vines, creates the distinctive expression found in their bottlings.
The domaine focuses primarily on Pinot Noir production, the signature red grape of Burgundy, with a smaller production of Chardonnay from white wine appellations. The wines are known for their pure expressions of terroir with bright red fruit character and silky textures.
Philosophy & Practice
Jean-Marie Fourrier employs a minimal intervention approach throughout his winemaking process. In the cellar, he utilizes a high percentage of whole clusters during fermentation, with the exact proportion varying by vintage and vineyard site to best express each parcel's character.
The aging process typically occurs in French oak barrels, with a moderate percentage of new oak (approximately 20-30%). Jean-Marie practices the distinctive technique of not racking the wines during the élevage (aging) period, allowing the wines to develop undisturbed on their lees.
The domaine employs minimal filtration in the winemaking process, often bottling directly from barrel. This approach preserves the natural character and structure of the wines while maintaining their aging potential.
These meticulous practices reflect Jean-Marie's philosophy of allowing each vineyard's unique characteristics to be expressed through thoughtful, traditional winemaking techniques enhanced by his technical training.