The Winery

Domaine Maurice Charleux, located in Dezize-les-Maranges near Santenay, was founded in 1894 by Ferdinand Charleux. Starting with just over half a hectare, Ferdinand expanded the property to 2 hectares by 1924. His son Joseph further grew the estate to 8 hectares over the next 30 years. In 1970, Maurice took over, branding the wines under his name. Maurice’s son Vincent joined nearly 20 years later, gradually acquiring more vineyards. Today, the domaine spans nearly 10 hectares, with 85% planted with Pinot Noir and 15% with Chardonnay.

The terroir, vines, and wine are carefully respected and maintained using ecologically sound practices. The family prefers to keep oak use to a minimum, allowing the unique terroir of each cru to shine through, rather than be overshadowed by an “international” style that can mask the distinct beauty of each climat.

Only indigenous yeasts are used for the reds. The grpaes are de-stemmed, then see a 3- to 5-day cold soak, and a 15- to 21-day fermentation period in cement tanks or foudres, with punchdowns, pump-overs and delestage. The premier cru wines go into oak casks, approximately 20% new.