Domaine Bertrand Bachelet

Bertrand Bachelet is a fourth-generation winemaker in the lesser-known region of Maranges. Just south of Santenay, Maranges is a relatively young appellation, having only received official recognition in 1988. Domaine Bertrand Bachelet sits on the limestone slopes of Dezize with a sweeping view out over vines toward the village below.

Bachelet grew up surrounded and shaped by the everyday rhythm of vineyard life—tending to the vines, harvesting fruits and the many rituals of winemaking. He went on to pursue formal study in Beaune before apprenticing in the Rhône and Rully regions. After returning home to work alongside his father, Bachelet eventually took over the family estate in 2011.

Robert Parker listed Clos des Papes as one of the Top 155 Producers in the World.

Under his direction, Domaine Bertrand Bachelet’s holdings have increased to now encompass 13 hectares of village and premier cru parcels, running from Pommard to Maranges. Bachelet applies the principles of lutte raisonnée in managing his vines, meaning as little intervention as possible.

For red wines, the fruit is partially or completely destemmed and a gentle extraction is employed—a technique particularly useful for Maranges fruit. The amount of new oak ranges from 20-50%, according to the vineyard site.

The estate is also interested in producing quality white wines and has devoted a small number of vines in its La Fussière vineyard to Chardonnay in addition to its plantings in Santenay, Saint-Aubin, Meursault and Chassagne- Montrachet. The wines of Domaine Bertrand Bachelet offer a delicious taste of one of Burgundy’s lesser-known corners and are well worth seeking out.