Marc Soyard - Domaine de la Cras

History of the Domaine de la Cras - Marc Soyard

The history of the domaine de la Cras begins in 2013, when the city of Dijon acquired this vast 160-hectare agricultural property to counter rapid urbanization and preserve the green belt of the agglomeration. Nestled between Dijon, Plombières-lès-Dijon, and Corcelles-les-Monts, this estate embodies an ambition: to revitalize a living peri-urban agriculture and breathe new life into a forgotten viticultural terroir, the Coteaux de Dijon.

It is in this context that Marc Soyard, a young Jurassian winegrower without a family vineyard, was chosen to take charge of the 8 hectares of vines. Trained for six years alongside Jean-Yves Bizot, an emblematic figure from Vosne-Romanée, Marc brings with him a philosophy of natural winemaking and a deep love for the terroir. From his arrival, he converted the vines to organic farming and integrated biodynamic practices, laying the foundations of sustainable viticulture. In exchange for managing the estate, Marc pays a symbolic rent of 2,000 bottles per year to the city, while retaining the freedom to produce and market his own wines.

Since 2014, the year of its first vintage, the domaine de la Cras has established itself as a reference for lovers of authentic Burgundian wines. Marc Soyard has successfully restored the prestige of a once-celebrated terroir, proving that the Coteaux de Dijon still have much to offer.

Terroirs and Vines of the Domaine de la Cras - Marc Soyard

The domaine de la Cras benefits from a privileged location on a limestone and clay plateau, typical of Burgundy. The 8 hectares of vines, planted some thirty years ago, are divided into 5 hectares of Pinot Noir and 3 hectares of Chardonnay. These emblematic grape varieties thrive on well-drained soils, where limestone brings freshness and minerality, while clay confers structure and complexity to the wines.

The estate is distinguished by two types of plots: the hillside vines, located at lower altitude, give rise to the "Coteaux de Dijon" cuvée, while the steeper and better-exposed plots, such as those of "Grande Bessy" for Chardonnay and "En Bessy" for Pinot Noir, produce the "Cras" cuvée. This diversity allows Marc Soyard to fully express the richness of the terroir.

In addition, Marc cultivates two small personal plots to the south of the Côte d'Or: one in Ladoix-Serrigny for the Hermaïon cuvée and another in the Hautes-Côtes-de-Nuits. These vines, tended with the same care, enrich the estate's range. Certified organic and influenced by biodynamics, all the vines are ploughed manually, without pesticides, to preserve soil life and the purity of the grapes.

Vinifications of the Domaine de la Cras - Marc Soyard

Marc Soyard's winemaking philosophy rests on a simple principle: intervene as little as possible to let the terroir express itself. True to the natural approach he learned from Jean-Yves Bizot, he favors artisanal and respectful methods. The grapes are sorted by hand with extreme rigor before being vinified.

For the reds, Marc often uses whole clusters (up to 100% depending on the vintage), favoring gentle extractions and fermentations with indigenous yeasts. No chemical inputs are added, apart from a minimal dose of SO2 at bottling, and only if necessary. The whites, derived from direct pressing, follow the same logic of purity, with fermentations in barrels to bring texture and complexity.

The aging, which generally lasts 15 to 18 months, takes place in Burgundian barrels, with a low percentage of new wood to preserve the freshness of the fruit. Marc also experiments with original wood varieties such as chestnut and acacia, adding a touch of innovation to Burgundian tradition. The wines are neither filtered nor fined, guaranteeing an authentic and vibrant expression of the terroir. This non-interventionist approach yields wines that are energetic, easy to drink, and of rare finesse, perfect for a premium wine purchase.

The Cuvées of the Domaine de la Cras - Marc Soyard

The domaine de la Cras offers a range of cuvées that reflect the diversity and quality of its terroir. 

Coteaux de Dijon Pinot Noir

From the estate's lower-elevation vines, this cuvée embodies the accessible elegance of Burgundian Pinot Noir. With its notes of red fruits, violet, and soft spices, it offers a silky and balanced palate. Vinified with natural yeasts and moderate aging, it is ideal for immediate enjoyment.

Coteaux de Dijon Chardonnay

This fresh and mineral white comes from the Chardonnay plots of "Grande Bessy." Its aromas of green apple, lemon, and white flowers are accompanied by a fine tension on the palate. Aged in barrels with a touch of wood, this wine captivates with its vivacity and unique Burgundian character.

Cras Rouge Monopole

Selected from the finest Pinot Noir plots, vinified 100% in whole clusters and aged 18 months in barrels, this cuvée is a jewel of intensity. Its aromas of black fruits, undergrowth, and dried flowers combine with a velvety texture and fine tannins. A wine for aging, yet already delightful for lovers of great reds.

Cras Blanc Monopole

Produced from the heart of the Chardonnay plots, this white wine reveals remarkable richness and complexity. Aged 18 months in new and used barrels, it unveils notes of stone fruits, hazelnut, and limestone minerality. Its broad and precise palate makes it an ideal companion for refined dishes.

Equilibriste Rouge

Conceived for immediate pleasure, this sulfur-free cuvée is made from the Pinot Noir vines of En Bessy. Light and fruity, it bursts with flavors of cherry, raspberry, and floral notes. Perfect for an aperitif among friends, it embodies Burgundian conviviality.

Equilibriste Blanc

This sulfur-free Chardonnay, planted in Talant in 2018, offers a brilliant freshness. Its aromas of white fruits and citrus blend with a lively and saline palate. A bold cuvée that illustrates the innovative spirit of Marc Soyard.

Hermaïon

From a plot in Ladoix-Serrigny, this Pinot Noir cuvée is a rarity. With its notes of ripe fruits, spices, and undergrowth, it combines power and finesse. Aged 15 to 18 months, it captivates with its balance and aging potential.

Hautes-Côtes-de-Nuits

Produced from old Pinot Noir vines, this confidential cuvée reveals intense aromas of black fruits and liquorice. Its elegant structure and silky tannins make it an exceptional wine, prized by connoisseurs.

Montrecul

A Pinot Noir of great finesse, this rare cuvée offers aromas of blackberry, violet, and wild herbs. Aged with care, it captivates with its delicate texture and long finish, perfect for great occasions.

The Domaine de la Cras, led by the talented Marc Soyard, is an invitation to discover Burgundy in a new light. By breathing new life into the Coteaux de Dijon, this estate proves that tradition and modernity can come together to create exceptional wines. Whether you are looking to buy an organic wine for a relaxed tasting or an age-worthy cuvée to enrich your cellar, the wines of the Domaine de la Cras offer a unique experience. With their purity, energy, and authenticity, they embody the very best of Burgundian viticulture. Explore our selection now and let yourself be seduced by these treasures at competitive prices!