DOMAINE BERNARD DEFAIX, France

Located a little to the north of the eponymous village of Chablis, the brothers have some of the best situated vineyards in the entire region and their efforts to coax the best from the soil are nothing short of incredible. This translates directly into their wines, which are powerful, textural and capable of considerable development. Certified organic and with a leaning towards biodynamics, the gentle, caring approach of the Defaix brothers makes their wines flagship examples of why Chablis is so special.

Viticulture

Since 2009 Bernard Defaix has been certified as organic, but more sustainable and ecologically friendly farming was something they have been working towards for several years. Combined with elements of biodynamic practices and some traditional techniques, like those used by their grandparents, such as earthing up the vines in winter to protect the base of the vine and inhibit weeds.

Winemaking

‘The first step in a successful vinification is always in the vineyard’. Alcoholic fermentation and then malolactic fermentation is carried out in stainless steel, with natural yeasts, with no additions of sulphur or fining, and only a light filtration before bottling.