Domaine Long Depaquit

The Bichot family have been in Burgundy, and more specifically in Beaune, for several generations, establishing themselves as one of the finest sources of wine in the region. But it has really been since Albéric Bichot took over the reins of the Company towards the end of the last century that they have moved themselves stealthily up to the top of the hierarchy of the various domaine / négociant hybrids that hold significant status in the region. 

They own a large number of vineyards spread across most of Burgundy, and run each of the six domaines as autonomous entities, each with their own winemaker, albeit overseen by a head winemaker which is currently Alain Serveau, although 2022 will be his final vintage from start to finish as he finally hangs up his pipette. In fact, Alain’s own family vineyards are the source of several of the wines that come under the Albert Bichot label, which means even they are virtually domaine wines too. Matthieu Mangenot, who was previously in charge at Domaine Long-Depaquit will take over from Alain in January. 

This sizeable estate features most of the appellation’s very best vineyards, including the unusual monopole of La Moutonne, 95% of which lies in Vaudesir and 5% in Les Preuses. The majority of the wines are aged in a mix of stainless steel and older oak barrels (between 10 and 25%) for about 10 months before spending a further 6 months and a second winter in stainless steel to regain vibrancy and maximise minerality. Most of the vineyards are middle-aged at around 40 to 50 years old and the vinification is designed to accentuate the classical character of the appellation.