DOMAINE THOMAS, France

Currently managed by the 13th generation, Julien Thomas, alongside his parents Jean and Ginette, and his wife Justine, the domaine spans 16 hectares in the village of Verdigny. The estate cultivates Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir across diverse terroirs, including flinty soils (silex), Kimmeridgian limestone, and caillottes (gravelly slopes), each contributing distinct characteristics to their wines.

Viticulture

Domaine Thomas transitioned to organic viticulture in 2012 and achieved full biodynamic certification by 2020. The estate employs lunar cycle-based soil work, green harvesting, and manual canopy management to enhance vine health and fruit quality. With an average vine age of 40–50 years, yields are naturally low, promoting phenolic ripeness and balanced acidity. Hand harvesting ensures optimal grape selection, and the use of indigenous yeasts during fermentation reflects the estate's commitment to terroir expression.

Winemaking

At Domaine Thomas, winemaking emphasises minimal intervention to preserve the natural character of the fruit. Grapes undergo whole-cluster pressing, followed by cold settling and fermentation with indigenous yeasts in stainless steel tanks. Post-fermentation, wines are aged on fine lees, with some cuvées undergoing extended aging in oak barrels. Sulphur use is limited, and wines are bottled without fining or filtration, resulting in expressive, terroir-driven wines with depth and complexity.