Rossignol-Trapet, Domaine
Summary
Domaine Rossignol-Trapet is a fifth-generation family estate in Gevrey-Chambertin with 14 hectares of limestone-clay vineyards, including prestigious Grand Cru parcels, dedicated exclusively to Pinot Noir production. The brothers employ traditional Burgundian methods including hand harvesting, native yeast fermentations, and judicious oak aging, while their commitment to biodynamic viticulture since 2004 reflects their balanced approach to honoring heritage while ensuring sustainability.
Heritage & Leadership
Domaine Rossignol-Trapet was established in 1990 when the original Domaine Rossignol was divided between two brothers. David and Nicolas Rossignol-Trapet took control of their portion of the family holdings, creating a new domaine that combines their father's name (Rossignol) with their mother's family name (Trapet). The brothers represent the fifth generation of winemakers in the family, with roots in Gevrey-Chambertin dating back to the early 20th century. Based in the heart of Gevrey-Chambertin, the domaine has been under the brothers' joint management since its inception, with both actively involved in vineyard management and winemaking decisions. Their father, Jacques Rossignol, provided guidance during the transition period, helping to establish the domaine's direction while allowing his sons to develop their own approach to the family's terroirs.
Vineyards & Wines
Domaine Rossignol-Trapet manages approximately 14 hectares of vineyards, primarily in Gevrey-Chambertin. Their holdings include parcels in three Grand Cru vineyards: Chambertin (1.6 hectares), Latricières-Chambertin (1.2 hectares), and Chapelle-Chambertin (0.5 hectares). The domaine also cultivates several Premier Cru sites in Gevrey-Chambertin, including Clos Prieur, Petite Chapelle, and Les Corbeaux. Their village-level holdings in Gevrey-Chambertin span about 5 hectares across multiple parcels with varying soil compositions. The vineyards feature limestone-clay soils typical of the Côte de Nuits, with variations in limestone content and drainage characteristics between sites. The Grand Cru parcels sit at elevations between 280 and 300 meters, with primarily eastern exposures that capture morning sunlight. The domaine's vineyards are planted exclusively to Pinot Noir, with vine ages ranging from 25 to 80 years, contributing to concentration and complexity in the wines.
Philosophy & Practice
Domaine Rossignol-Trapet converted to biodynamic viticulture beginning in 2004 and received Demeter certification in 2008. This approach includes the use of biodynamic preparations, attention to lunar cycles for vineyard work, and the elimination of synthetic chemicals in favor of natural treatments. In the winery, the brothers employ traditional Burgundian techniques with minimal intervention. Harvesting is done by hand, with careful sorting both in the vineyard and at the winery. Fermentation occurs with native yeasts in open-top wooden vats, with varying percentages of whole clusters retained depending on the vintage and vineyard—typically 30-100% for Grand Crus. Extraction is gentle, primarily through punch-downs rather than pump-overs. The wines age in French oak barrels for 15-18 months, with new oak percentages calibrated to each wine's structure: approximately 50-60% for Grand Crus, 30-40% for Premier Crus, and 20-25% for village wines. The domaine practices minimal filtration, generally only when necessary based on the characteristics of the vintage, to preserve the wines' natural expression and aging potential.