Domaine Fourrier

Domaine Fourrier is a renowned winery nestled in the picturesque village of Gevrey-Chambertin, at the heart of Burgundy's wine country in France. The estate boasts an impressive lineage, with winemaking traditions that date back to the late 19th century, and has been managed by the Fourrier family for multiple generations. The current proprietor, Jean-Marie Fourrier, took the helm in 1994, continuing the legacy with a distinct blend of innovation and respect for time-honored practices.

The vineyards of Domaine Fourrier cover approximately 9 hectares (about 22 acres) of land, where vines are meticulously cared for, with some plots hosting vines over 80 years old. These older vines contribute a concentrated and complex character to the wines, a signature of the Domaine's terroir-driven approach. The estate includes coveted parcels within several Premier and Grand Cru sites, such as Griotte-Chambertin, Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru, and Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru, which are revered by connoisseurs for their depth and precision.

At the core of Domaine Fourrier's winemaking philosophy is a minimalist intervention method, allowing the natural expression of the vineyards to shine through in every bottle. The vines are cultivated with sustainable practices, eschewing the use of chemical herbicides and pesticides. During harvest, grapes are carefully handpicked to ensure that only the best fruit makes it to the fermentation tanks.

In the cellar, Jean-Marie Fourrier employs a gentle touch. The grapes undergo a meticulous sorting process to eliminate any flawed berries before fermentation. The winery favors the use of indigenous yeasts for fermentation, further emphasizing the wine's connection to its origin. Oak usage is judicious, with a preference for older barrels to prevent the wood from overpowering the wine’s delicate fruit nuances. The resulting wines are often aged in these barrels for a period of 16 to 20 months before bottling, depending on the cuvée.

Domaine Fourrier's wines are celebrated for their elegance and purity of flavor. They possess a distinctive silkiness of texture that is often linked to the intricate and balanced management of tannins. On the nose, they exhibit a refined bouquet of red fruits, floral notes, and subtle earthy undertones. On the palate, the wines demonstrate remarkable complexity, with a layered expression of fruit, minerality, and finely integrated oak that leads to a lengthy, harmonious finish.

Visitors to Domaine Fourrier can expect an immersive experience into the world of Burgundian winemaking. While tastings are by appointment only, those who do visit are treated to an in-depth look at the winemaking process, from the vine to the bottle, and the opportunity to taste some of the estate's exquisite creations. It's not just about the wines, though; it’s also an introduction to the Fourrier family's passion and dedication to their craft, making Domaine Fourrier a must-visit destination for anyone with an appreciation for fine Burgundy wines.

The allure of Domaine Fourrier extends beyond the confines of the winery, gracing the tables of Michelin-starred restaurants and the cellars of discerning collectors worldwide. Each bottle is a testament to the Domaine's commitment to excellence and a reflection of the unique terroir of Gevrey-Chambertin.