OLIVIER LEFLAIVE, France
Emerging from a long line of Burgundian vignerons, Olivier founded his own domaine in the early 1990s after branching out independently from the famed Domaine Leflaive. Today, the estate encompasses approximately 17ha of owned vineyards and sources fruit from over 100ha of contracted growers across Burgundy, including prestigious areas such as Chablis, the Côte Chalonnaise, and the Côte de Beaune. Known for its refined white Chardonnays, the house also maintains a small but focused production of Pinot Noir reds and Aligoté whites. Beyond winemaking, Olivier Leflaive has become a benchmark for Burgundy hospitality, offering luxurious accommodation, vineyard tours and fine dining through the award-winning hotel, bistro, and Klima restaurant.
Viticulture
The vineyards under Olivier Leflaive span some of the most revered appellations in Burgundy, including Puligny-Montrachet, Meursault, Chassagne-Montrachet, and Grand Crus such as Bâtard-Montrachet, Corton-Charlemagne, and Le Montrachet. The estate is committed to sustainable viticulture, sourcing grapes from growers who practice meticulous vineyard management and harvesting by hand. Chardonnay is the primary focus, though Pinot Noir and Aligoté also feature in the portfolio. His vineyards and grower partners follow an organic and biodynamic as well as sustainable approach, certified at the highest "High Environmental Value" level (HVE level 3).
Winemaking
In the cellar, the approach is vineyard-specific and terroir-focused. Grapes are gently pressed, and fermentation often occurs in a mix of stainless steel tanks and French oak barrels, depending on the wine’s level and style. Malolactic fermentation is typically carried out, and the wines are aged on their lees, with bâtonnage (lees stirring) used selectively to enhance texture. Winemaking is tailored to express each vineyard’s character, with a balanced use of new oak that enhances complexity without overwhelming the purity of the fruit. The estate produces wines at all levels, from entry-level Bourgogne Blanc “Les Sétilles” to rare and highly sought-after Grand Crus, offering options for everyday enjoyment as well as cellar-worthy prestige bottlings.
