Domaine Faiveley: tradition and innovation in Burgundy and beyond
In the revered halls of Burgundian winemaking, Domaine Faiveley is renowned for both dedication to tradition and pioneering spirit. Established in 1825, the domaine has evolved under the stewardship of seven generations, each committed to enhancing the legacy of their terroir. Today, under the guidance of siblings Erwan and Eve Faiveley, the domaine honors its heritage while embracing modern viticulture, evident in its exquisite portfolio of wines and bold international endeavors.
The wines of Domaine Faiveley
Each bottle from Domaine Faiveley undergoes meticulous craftsmanship and expresses the distinctiveness of Burgundy's terroir.
The Chambertin Clos de Bèze Grand Cru showcases ripe red fruits like cherry and raspberry, complemented by earthy notes of forest floor and truffle. Over time, it develops deeper flavors of leather and spice, maintaining a harmonious balance and complexity that reflect its exceptional terroir.
Corton 'Clos des Cortons Faiveley', the domaine's monopole, offers concentrated flavors of cherry and blackcurrant. It radiates elegance with a robust structure, delivering a harmonious blend of ripe fruit, subtle tannins, and a long, refined finish that exemplifies its unique terroir.
Domaine Faiveley’s Clos de Vougeot captures the essence of this historic vineyard with its rich and complex profile. It reveals layers of dark cherry, plum, and hints of earthy truffle, all enveloped in a firm structure. The wine's refined tannins and balanced acidity promise excellent aging potential, showcasing both power and elegance.
Not to be overlooked, the Les Cazetiers, Gevrey-Chambertin Premier Cru showcases vibrant berry notes balanced with refined tannins. It presents flavors of raspberry and blackberry with hints of earthiness, making it both accessible and profound, perfect for immediate enjoyment or aging.
Faiveley’s bold step in legal history
The domaine's narrative took an intriguing turn when François Faiveley engaged in a notable legal battle with wine critic Robert Parker Jr. This lawsuit stemmed from a dispute over wine evaluation standards after the critic suggested that Faiveley’s wines tasted better in the cellar than bottles found in shops, insinuating some degree of misrepresentation during sampling.
This case underscored the tensions between global wine criticism and regional viticultural pride, reinforcing Faiveley’s reputation for uncompromising quality and integrity and highlighting Faiveley's staunch defense of Burgundian winemaking traditions against external critiques.
Expanding horizons: Domaine Faiveley and Williams Selyem
In a landmark move, Domaine Faiveley recently acquired a majority stake in Sonoma’s Williams Selyem, marking a significant transatlantic expansion. Four years after initially investing in the icon of California Pinot Noir, Erwan Faiveley has solidified his family's presence in the Russian River Valley, embracing the pioneering spirit that Williams Selyem embodies. The acquisition encompasses the brand, inventory, and over 135 acres of vineyards, securing a foothold in a region renowned for its exceptional Pinot Noir.
This strategic expansion is not just an acquisition but a melding of philosophies. Both houses cherish a deep-rooted passion for site-specific winemaking and a commitment to expressing the subtlest nuances of their respective terroirs. The partnership promises to uphold and evolve the legacy of Burt Williams and Ed Selyem, ensuring the continuity of their visionary approach under the banner of shared excellence and family-oriented stewardship.
Faiveley's commitment
Domaine Faiveley's journey from a humble family vineyard to a standard-bearer of Burgundian excellence and a global wine influencer is a compelling tale of passion, tradition, and innovation. As they continue to shape the future of wine, both in Burgundy and across oceans, the Faiveley family remains devoted to the art of fine winemaking, honoring their ancestors while eagerly anticipating the future's boundless possibilities. Their wines, a bridge between past and present, invite wine lovers to savor a heritage enriched with each vintage.
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