Simon Bize

History of Domaine Simon Bize

The history of Domaine Simon Bize begins 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 parcels of vines. This modest beginning marks the origin of a family lineage that would pass down 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 modernized viticulture through the introduction of horses and agricultural equipment, thereby easing the burden of manual labor.

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 négociants. This approach allowed him 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 over the helm of the estate. He expanded the portfolio by purchasing new plots and building a modern winery. During his years of management, Patrick elevated the estate's wines to the pinnacle of their art, making Savigny-les-Beaune an unmissable reference. After his tragic passing in 2013, his wife Chisa Bize continued his work, bringing her own sensitivity while honoring the spirit of the family house.

Terroirs and Vineyards of Domaine Simon Bize

Domaine Simon Bize is located in Savigny-les-Beaune, an appellation often underestimated within the Côte de Beaune, yet one that holds exceptional richness. The estate spans 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 incomparable depth and structure to the wines, particularly those intended for aging.

In terms of viticulture, Chisa Bize embraced biodynamic farming as early as 2008, notably 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 agriculture and the preservation of biodiversity.

Winemaking at Domaine Simon Bize

The philosophy of Domaine Simon Bize is rooted in 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 aging in barrels.

White wines

The white grapes, primarily from the chardonnay variety, are gently pressed upon their arrival at the winery. The must is naturally clarified 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 aging process allows the wines to develop their freshness and fruitiness while revealing their depth and aging potential.

Red wines

For the red wines, based on pinot noir, the estate favors a winemaking approach that respects the finesse 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 aromas and tannins. After a delicate 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 prioritizes elegance and balance over power or excessive extraction.

The Cuvées of Domaine Simon Bize

Domaine Simon Bize offers an impressive range of cuvées, both white and red, illustrating 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 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 destination.