Domaine Bernard Defaix

Domaine Bernard Defaix – Family tradition and sustainable commitment at the heart of Chablis

Domain name

Domaine Bernard Defaix

Wine region

Burgundy – Chablis

Appellations and terroirs

Domaine Bernard Defaix spans 27 hectares across Chablis, Petit Chablis, and Chablis Premier Cru, with prestigious parcels on Côte de Léchet, Les Vaillons, and Les Lys. The Kimmeridgian limestone-rich soils, combined with optimal sun exposure, produce wines renowned for their mineral purity, freshness, and finesse. The estate is particularly recognized for its mastery of the terroirs and the authentic expression of each vineyard site in its wines.

Iconic grape varieties

Chardonnay, Aligoté, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc

Philosophy and History

A fourth-generation winemaking family, the estate was founded in 1959 by Bernard Defaix with 2 hectares. Since then, the family has been committed to quality and innovation, notably with the implementation of the first techniques to protect against spring frosts in the 1960s, guaranteeing consistent harvests. Today, Bernard's sons, Sylvain and Didier, and his wife Hélène, manage the entire family operation, from vineyard management to sales.

The estate has embraced ecological and sustainable agriculture, with thorough soil work through plowing and biodynamic practices such as the use of natural preparations. This approach aims to strengthen soil vitality and vine health, while respecting biodiversity. Detailed soil profile analysis has allowed for optimized plot management, resulting in better balance and expression of the wines.

Production specifics

The harvest is primarily mechanized for greater flexibility, but always with rigorous sorting. The grapes are carefully transported to the winery to prevent oxidation, with gentle and selective pressing. Vinification alternates between stainless steel tanks and oak barrels depending on the cuvée, with aging on fine lees for 8 to 12 months, and precise techniques of bâtonnage (lees stirring) and remontage (pumping over) to develop aromatic complexity. The estate has also adhered to organic farming standards since 2012, extending to the winery, guaranteeing the production of certified organic wines.

Wine range

Domaine Bernard Defaix offers a wide range representative of Chablis and its associated appellations:

• Petit Chablis: fresh and mineral, perfect for aperitifs or light meals.
• Classic Chablis: lively, with lemony and mineral notes, best enjoyed young.
• Chablis Vieilles Vignes: vinified partly in oak barrels, rich and delicate, ideal to accompany fish and poultry.
• Chablis Premier Cru Côte de Léchet: powerful, mineral, with flint notes, with strong aging potential.
• Chablis Premier Cru Les Vaillons and Les Lys: complex and balanced, combining freshness and structure.
• Chablis Premier Cru Côte de Léchet Réserve: prestigious cuvée aged in new barrels, marked by elegance and richness.
• Chablis Premier Cru Fourchaume and Montée de Tonnerre: powerful and round, aged in barrels, with floral and mineral aromas.
• Grands Crus Bougros, Vaudésir, Les Clos: prestigious, long and complex wines, mature enough to accompany gourmet dishes.
• Other wines: Bourgogne Aligoté, Bourgogne Blanc, Saint-Bris Sauvignon and Bourgogne Rouge Pinot Noir complete the range.

Recognitions

The wines of Domaine Bernard Defaix enjoy a solid reputation, regularly praised by critics and awarded in specialist guides. Their ability to express the typicity of the Chablis terroirs, combined with their consistent quality, makes them essential references for both amateurs and professionals.

Environmental commitment

For several years, the estate has been committed to sustainable and environmentally friendly viticulture. Soil cultivation, plant cover management, the judicious use of natural treatments, and the integration of biodynamic practices demonstrate this commitment to combining tradition and modernity in the service of quality and vineyard preservation.

Why choose a wine from Domaine Bernard Defaix?

• A family tradition and four generations of experience
• Organic viticulture that respects the terroir
• A full range of Chablis appellations, from fresh wines to exceptional Grands Crus
• Rigorous expertise in winemaking and aging
• Wines renowned for their purity, minerality, and aging potential

Discover the range from Domaine Bernard Defaix and immerse yourself in the authentic and refined world of Chablis wines, a faithful reflection of their terroir and history.