Launay Horiot, Domaine
Summary
Domaine Launay Horiot is a small family estate in Burgundy's Côte d'Or, producing Pinot Noir from prestigious holdings in both Pommard and Gevrey-Chambertin, including Grand Cru Latricières-Chambertin and Premier Cru Les Rugiens. Recently revitalized by Xavier Horiot after reclaiming his grandfather's vineyards in the 2010s, the domaine combines traditional Burgundian winemaking methods with renewed vision, quickly establishing itself as a noteworthy producer in this historic region.
Heritage & Leadership
Domaine Launay Horiot is a Burgundian estate with roots in Pommard, one of the prestigious communes in Burgundy's Côte de Beaune. The domaine's modern chapter began in the 2010s when Xavier Horiot took the helm of the family estate. Xavier, who had previously pursued a career outside the wine industry, inherited the vineyards from his grandfather, Raymond Launay, following legal proceedings related to the family succession.
The domaine represents a continuation of family winegrowing tradition spanning multiple generations in Burgundy. Under Xavier Horiot's leadership, the estate has established itself as a producer of fine Burgundian wines from both the Côte de Beaune and Côte de Nuits, focusing on expressing the distinctive terroirs of their vineyard holdings.
Vineyards & Wines
Domaine Launay Horiot maintains vineyard parcels across two of Burgundy's most respected communes: Pommard in the Côte de Beaune and Gevrey-Chambertin in the Côte de Nuits. Their holdings include plots in the prestigious Grand Cru Latricières-Chambertin in Gevrey-Chambertin, as well as Premier Cru sites in Pommard, notably including Les Rugiens.
The domaine focuses primarily on Pinot Noir production, in keeping with the traditions of these appellations. Their Pommard wines display the structure and power characteristic of the appellation, while their Gevrey-Chambertin offerings balance power with elegance. This portfolio allows the domaine to showcase the distinctive expressions of Pinot Noir from different terroirs within Burgundy's famed Côte d'Or.
Philosophy & Practice
Domaine Launay Horiot likely adheres to traditional Burgundian winemaking practices in crafting their wines, though specific techniques are not well-documented. Their approach to vinification respects the established methods that have defined Burgundy's winemaking heritage for generations.
The aging process for their wines likely incorporates French oak barrels, as is typical for the region, though specific details about their barrel program are not well-documented. This traditional elevage helps develop complexity while respecting the inherent character of each vineyard site. Through these methods, the domaine works to translate the distinctive qualities of their Pommard and Gevrey-Chambertin terroirs into wines that reflect their origins.