Domaine Leflaive
Domaine Leflaive is located in the heart of Burgundy, France, and is among the most revered estates in viticulture. Located in the heart of Puligny-Montrachet, this winery stands as a true benchmark for white Burgundy. Known for its mastery of Chardonnay, it consistently produces wines that exemplify the region’s exceptional terroir.
Its legacy dates back to the early 18th century. Domaine Leflaive has shaped the modern perception of fine white wine through its dedication to tradition, terroir, and biodynamic practices.
The History of the Leflaive Family
Domaine Leflaive has maintained a presence in Puligny since 1717, deeply intertwined with the Leflaive family’s stewardship. Joseph Leflaive, an engineer, laid the foundation for its modern success in the early 20th century.
After acquiring the estate in 1905, Joseph focused on restoring vineyards devastated by phylloxera. With his friend and estate manager François Virot, he replanted and enhanced the vineyards. They carefully selected rootstocks suited to each parcel, ensuring the land’s optimal productivity. Over time, Joseph began selling wine under his label, reaching private clientele and establishing the estate’s reputation.
His sons, Vincent and Jo, succeeded him, continuing his vision.
However, the domaine’s transformation into a leader in biodynamic practices occurred under Anne-Claude Leflaive, Joseph’s great-granddaughter. She took over in 1990 and passionately promoted environmentally respectful farming.
Anne-Claude spearheaded the shift to biodynamics, eliminating chemical inputs and embracing natural methods to preserve the terroir. Her leadership yielded wines of remarkable finesse and elegance, demonstrating her commitment to sustainability.
After her untimely passing in April 2015, Brice de la Morandière, Joseph’s great-grandson, assumed management. Today, winemaking at Domaine Leflaive thrives under the guidance of Pierre Vincent, continuing its legacy of innovation and respect for the land.
The Vineyards
The Winemaking Process
Domaine Leflaive’s vineyards span some of the most hallowed ground in Burgundy, encompassing approximately 24 hectares (about 60 acres) of meticulously tended vines. The estate’s holdings include prestigious plots in four of Puligny-Montrachet’s Grand Cru vineyards: Bâtard-Montrachet, Bienvenues-Bâtard-Montrachet, Chevalier-Montrachet, and Montrachet itself. These sites are renowned for their limestone-rich soils, which impart a distinctive minerality to the wines, a hallmark of Leflaive’s Chardonnays. The estate also cultivates several Premier Cru vineyards, each contributing to the winery’s diverse and nuanced portfolio.
The wines undergo 12 months of aging in 25% new oak barrels, which imparts subtle complexity and depth. After this period, they are carefully transferred to steel tanks, allowing natural clarification over the course of the second winter.
After this stage, the wines undergo fining and bottling, ensuring both clarity and stability. Thanks to these meticulous steps, the Chardonnays showcase exceptional elegance, balance, and impressive longevity. Consequently, they have earned widespread acclaim for their refined and enduring character.
Today, Domaine Leflaive stands as a beacon of excellence in the world of wine, its name synonymous with quality and tradition. The estate’s wines are highly sought after by collectors and connoisseurs alike, with each vintage representing a profound expression of Burgundy’s unique terroir. As Domaine Leflaive continues to evolve, it remains deeply rooted in the values of family, respect for nature, and an unwavering commitment to crafting wines of unparalleled distinction.
The Domaine Leflaive Range
