Simon Bize

History of Domaine Simon Bize

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 ventured into viticulture with a few acres of vines. This modest beginning marked the origin of a family lineage that would pass down its know-how and love of the land from generation to generation. In 1918, his son Simon took over and expanded the estate by acquiring new parcels. He modernized viticulture through the introduction of horses and agricultural equipment, thus lightening manual labor.

It was in the 1950s that the estate underwent its first major transformation. Simon Bize (the grandson) made a bold decision: to market the wines directly instead of going through négociants. This approach allowed for a privileged relationship with a clientele of private individuals, 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 over the estate. He expanded the portfolio by purchasing new parcels 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 essential reference. After his tragic death in 2013, his wife Chisa Bize continued his work, infusing her own sensibility while respecting the spirit of the family house.

Terroirs and Vineyards of Domaine Simon Bize

Domaine Simon Bize is located in Savigny-les-Beaune, an often underestimated appellation of the Côte de Beaune, but one that holds exceptional richness. The estate extends over approximately 22 hectares, with a diversity of terroirs spread across several parcels, 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 parcel, 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 incomparable depth and structure to the wines, particularly those intended for aging.

In terms of viticulture, Chisa Bize embraced biodynamics as early as 2008, particularly on the "Les Serpentières" parcel, to respect the environment and produce more authentic wines. This choice demonstrates the estate's commitment to sustainable agriculture that respects biodiversity.

Vinification at Domaine Simon Bize

The philosophy of Domaine Simon Bize is based on vinification that respects the integrity of the grape and the expression of the terroirs. Each stage of the process is carried out with meticulous attention, from manual harvesting to barrel aging.

The white wines

The white grapes, mainly from the Chardonnay variety, are pressed gently upon arrival at the winery. The must is naturally clarified before being transferred to barrels for spontaneous fermentation. The estate's white wines are aged between 9 and 15 months in oak barrels, of which 15 to 30% are new, adding subtle complexity without masking the fruit. The aging process allows the wines to develop their freshness and fruitiness while revealing their depth and aging potential.

The red wines

For red wines, made from Pinot Noir, the estate favors a vinification that respects the finesse of the grape variety. The grapes may be vinified as whole bunches or partially destemmed, depending on the appellation and vintage. Alcoholic fermentation lasts between 5 and 7 days, allowing the juice to absorb the aromas and tannins. After delicate maceration, the wines are aged in barrels for about a year, with minimal new oak to preserve the purity of the fruit. The estate's vinification method thus favors elegance and balance in the wines rather than power or excessive extraction.

The Cuvées of Domaine Simon Bize

Domaine Simon Bize offers an impressive range of cuvées, both white and red, that 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

Corton Charlemagne Grand Cru

Latricières Chambertin Grand Cru

Domaine Simon Bize has produced several remarkable vintages not to be missed for lovers of great Burgundy wines. Here is a selection of the best 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 benchmark for Burgundy wine enthusiasts. 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 from this estate are an essential experience.