Albert Bichot: The Seven-Headed Doe Explained

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Discover the rich legacy of Albert Bichot, a Burgundy winemaking family since 1350, committed to quality, sustainability, and unique terroirs across six domains.

The Legacy of Albert Bichot: A Family Tradition in Burgundy

The Bichot family has deep roots in Burgundy, dating back to 1350. However, the Albert Bichot house was officially founded in 1831 by Bernard Bichot in Monthélie. His son, Hippolyte, expanded the family’s vineyard holdings by purchasing vines in Volnay. Later, Albert Bichot moved the family business to Beaune in 1912, establishing a central hub for their operations.

Under the leadership of Albert Bichot II, the house gained international recognition. He traveled extensively, promoting their wines in North America, Asia, and Oceania. His efforts led to the construction of a state-of-the-art aging cellar, capable of holding over two million bottles. Today, the Bichot family continues this legacy, with Albert Bichot III and his brothers managing the vineyards and maintaining the family tradition of winemaking.

The family’s commitment to quality and tradition is evident in their six distinct domains. Each domain, including Clos Frantin and Château Gris, showcases the unique terroirs of Burgundy. This dedication to excellence has allowed the Bichot family to thrive for nearly two centuries.

The Diverse Domains of Albert Bichot

Albert Bichot oversees six remarkable domains, each with its own unique characteristics. The Long-Depaquit domain, acquired in 1970, boasts a history dating back to 1114. It is known for its organic farming practices and meticulous attention to detail. The grapes from this domain are hand-harvested, ensuring the highest quality.

Next, the Clos Frantin domain in Nuits-Saint-Georges features 13.2 hectares of vineyards, including eight hectares of premier cru. Here, Albéric Bichot employs sustainable practices, avoiding chemical fertilizers and herbicides. The result is high-quality grapes that produce exceptional wines.

The Château Gris, located in Nuits-Saint-Georges, is another gem in the Bichot portfolio. This estate, acquired in 1978, is known for its unique terraced vineyards. The wines produced here are elegant and powerful, showcasing the distinct characteristics of the region.

Commitment to Sustainability and Quality

Albert Bichot is dedicated to sustainable practices across all its domains. Many vineyards are certified organic, reflecting the family’s commitment to environmental stewardship. The approach includes manual labor, organic soil fertilization, and minimal intervention during vinification.

The family’s philosophy emphasizes the importance of terroir. Each domain’s unique characteristics are preserved through careful vineyard management. This dedication to quality has resulted in a significant improvement in the wines produced over the past fifteen years.

Moreover, the Bichot family is deeply connected to the Burgundy region. They have been recognized as a Grand Mécène Fondateur of the Cité des Climats et des Vins de Bourgogne. Their efforts to promote the region’s heritage and wines are commendable, ensuring that the legacy of Albert Bichot continues for generations to come.

Photo by Anthony Aird on Unsplash

Source: Idealwine – Albert Bichot : la biche à sept têtes