Personalise your experience
Change your country, language and currency here whenever you wish.
|
|
|
Must-See Châteaux |
|
|
|
|
|
|
An iconic estate in Savigny-les-Beaune
Domaine Simon Bize et Fils, located in Savigny-les-Beaune in Burgundy, is one of the jewels of the Côte de Beaune. With a history dating back to 1880, the estate is renowned for its wines of character, crafted with respect for the terroirs and Burgundian winemaking traditions. Known for its complex and elegant cuvées, Domaine Simon Bize embodies the authenticity and excellence of Burgundy wines, with particular attention paid to finesse and the expression of terroirs.
The history of Domaine Simon Bize began in 1880 with Simon Bize, a viticultural pioneer in Savigny-les-Beaune. In the midst of the phylloxera crisis, he embarked on viticulture with a few acres of vines. This modest beginning marked the origin of a family lineage that would pass on its expertise and love of the land from generation to generation. In 1918, his son Simon took over the reins and expanded the estate by acquiring new plots. He modernised viticulture through the introduction of horses and agricultural equipment, thereby easing the burden of manual labour.
It was in the 1950s that the estate underwent its first major transformation. Simon Bize (the grandson) made a bold decision: to sell the wines directly rather than going through the négociant trade. This approach allowed the estate to establish a privileged relationship with private customers, wine merchants and restaurateurs. The quality of the wines improved and began to attract the attention of connoisseurs.
In 1972, Patrick Bize, representing the fourth generation, took the reins of the estate. He expanded the portfolio by purchasing new plots and building a modern winery. During his years of management, Patrick brought the estate's wines to the pinnacle of their art, making Savigny-les-Beaune an unmissable reference. Following his tragic death in 2013, his wife Chisa Bize continued his work, infusing her own sensibility while respecting the spirit of the family house.
Domaine Simon Bize is located in Savigny-les-Beaune, an appellation often underestimated within the Côte de Beaune, yet one that harbours exceptional richness. The estate covers approximately 22 hectares, with a diversity of terroirs spread across several plots, some of which are among the most renowned in the appellation.
The clay-limestone soils, typical of Burgundy, provide fertile ground for pinot noir and chardonnay. Each plot, whether the Premiers Crus "Les Vergelesses" or "Les Marconnets", benefits from a unique microclimate, allowing the grape varieties to express themselves fully and produce wines of great finesse and complexity. The estate's old vines, some planted as early as 1939, bring unparalleled depth and structure to the wines, particularly those intended for ageing.
In terms of viticulture, Chisa Bize embraced biodynamics as early as 2008, particularly on the "Les Serpentières" plot, in order to respect the environment and produce more authentic wines. This choice reflects the estate's commitment to sustainable farming and respect for biodiversity.
The philosophy of Domaine Simon Bize is built on a winemaking approach that respects the integrity of the grape and the expression of the terroirs. Every step of the process is carried out with meticulous attention, from the manual harvest to the ageing in barrels.
The white wines
The white grapes, mainly from the chardonnay variety, are gently pressed upon arrival at the winery. The must is clarified naturally before being transferred to barrels for spontaneous fermentation. The estate's white wines are aged for between 9 and 15 months in oak barrels, of which 15 to 30% are new, adding subtle complexity without masking the fruit. The ageing process allows the wines to develop their freshness and fruitiness while revealing their depth and ageing potential.
The red wines
For the red wines, based on pinot noir, the estate favours a winemaking approach that respects the delicacy of the grape variety. The grapes may be vinified as whole clusters or partially destemmed, depending on the appellation and the vintage. Alcoholic fermentation lasts between 5 and 7 days, allowing the juice to absorb the aromas and tannins. After a gentle maceration, the wines are aged in barrels for approximately one year, with a minimum of new barrels to preserve the purity of the fruit. The estate's winemaking method thus prioritises elegance and balance over power or excessive extraction.
Domaine Simon Bize offers an impressive range of cuvées, both white and red, which illustrate the diversity and richness of the Savigny-les-Beaune terroirs. Here is an overview of the estate's most emblematic cuvées:
Bourgogne Les Champlains (white)
Bourgogne Les Perrières (white)
Bourgogne Les Perrières (red)
Savigny-les-Beaune (white)
Savigny-les-Beaune (red)
Savigny-les-Beaune Aux Grands Liards
Savigny-les-Beaune 1er cru Les Serpentières
Savigny-les-Beaune 1er cru Les Fournaux
Savigny-les-Beaune 1er cru Les Talmettes
Savigny-les-Beaune 1er cru Les Marconnets
Savigny-les-Beaune 1er cru Aux Guettes
Savigny-les-Beaune 1er cru Aux Vergelesses (white)
Savigny-les-Beaune 1er cru Aux Vergelesses (red)
Aloxe-Corton Le Suchot
Latricières Chambertin Grand Cru
Domaine Simon Bize has produced several remarkable vintages that should not be missed by lovers of great Burgundy wines. Here is a selection of the finest years: 2005, 2009, 2010, 2012, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020…
Burgundy is home to many prestigious and renowned estates. If you appreciate the wines of Domaine Simon Bize, here are other estates to discover in the region: Arnaud Ente, Comtes Lafon, De Montille, Domaine Leflaive, Dujac, Etienne Sauzet, Joseph Drouhin, Leroy…
Domaine Simon Bize is a true reference for lovers of Burgundian wines. With a rich history, exceptional terroirs and a deep commitment to quality, this family estate continues to produce authentic, refined and elegant wines. Whether through its Savigny-les-Beaune cuvées or its grand crus, Domaine Simon Bize perpetuates a tradition of excellence that captivates the most discerning palates. For those wishing to discover or rediscover the treasures of the Côte de Beaune, the wines of this estate are an unmissable experience.
COLLECTION NEAR PARIS & VAT REFUND FOR TOURISTS
Free collection in our warehouse near central Paris (92)