Dominique Laurent, Volnay 1er Cru AOC Clos des Chenes

About Dominique Laurent

Dominique Laurent is a celebrated figure in Burgundy’s wine world, known for his meticulous approach to both négociant and domaine winemaking. Originally a pastry chef in Paris, Laurent’s passion for wine led him to Burgundy in the late 1980s, where he began sourcing grapes and wines from esteemed vineyards. His background outside of traditional winemaking gave him a fresh perspective, and he quickly gained attention for his commitment to expressing the true character of Burgundy’s terroirs.

Laurent’s philosophy centers on minimal intervention and respect for the vine. He works closely with growers, often selecting fruit from old vines in some of the region’s most prestigious appellations, including Gevrey-Chambertin, Chambolle-Musigny, and Vosne-Romanée. His relationships with these growers are based on mutual trust and a shared dedication to quality, ensuring that he has access to exceptional raw material each vintage.

In the cellar, Dominique Laurent is known for his use of custom-made barrels, crafted from oak he personally selects and seasons. He believes that the right barrel can enhance a wine’s complexity without overpowering its intrinsic qualities. Fermentation is typically carried out with indigenous yeasts, and Laurent avoids fining and filtration whenever possible, aiming to preserve the wine’s natural expression. His reds are often noted for their depth, purity, and the ability to age gracefully, while his whites display precision and minerality.

Laurent’s approach has evolved over time. While he initially built his reputation as a négociant, sourcing grapes and must from a range of growers, he later acquired his own vineyards, allowing for even greater control over the entire process. His domaine wines are produced with the same attention to detail as his négociant bottlings, reflecting his belief that great wine is made in the vineyard but requires careful stewardship in the cellar.

Throughout his career, Dominique Laurent has been both innovative and traditional, blending modern techniques with time-honored practices. He is particularly known for his advocacy of old vines, which he believes produce wines of greater concentration and complexity. His dedication to quality and authenticity has earned him a loyal following among collectors and sommeliers, and his wines are sought after for their ability to convey the nuances of Burgundy’s varied terroirs.

Dominique Laurent’s influence extends beyond his own labels. He has inspired a generation of winemakers to focus on low-intervention methods and to prioritize the health of their vineyards. His meticulous barrel selection and blending techniques have set new standards in the region, and his willingness to experiment has contributed to the ongoing evolution of Burgundy winemaking. Today, Laurent continues to produce a range of wines from both his domaine and négociant operations, each bottle reflecting his unwavering commitment to excellence and his deep respect for the land.