Albert Bichot is one of the great family stories in Burgundy wine. Founded in 1831, this Beaune-based house has grown from a modest negociant business into a major force in Burgundian winemaking, owning six domaines across the region. Under the leadership of Alberic Bichot, the current generation, the house has undergone a remarkable quality revolution that has earned it international acclaim.
A Family Legacy
The Bichot family has been involved in Burgundy wine for nearly two centuries. The house was founded by Bernard Bichot in 1831 and has remained family-owned ever since, passing through six generations. This continuity of ownership has allowed the house to take a long-term view, investing in vineyards and quality improvements that might not pay off for decades.
The Six Domaines
What sets Albert Bichot apart from many negociants is its ownership of six distinct domaines across Burgundy, each with its own identity and terroir expression.
Domaine du Clos Frantin (Vosne-Romanee)
Located in the heart of the Cote de Nuits, this domaine includes parcels in some of the most prestigious vineyards in Burgundy, including Echezeaux, Clos de Vougeot, and Grands-Echezeaux. These are wines of extraordinary depth and complexity.
Domaine Long-Depaquit (Chablis)
One of the most important domaines in Chablis, Long-Depaquit owns significant holdings in Grand Cru and Premier Cru vineyards, including the celebrated La Moutonne, a unique vineyard that straddles two Grand Cru sites. The Chablis from this domaine is among the finest in the appellation.
Domaine du Pavillon (Pommard)
Based in the Cote de Beaune, this domaine produces structured, age-worthy reds from Pommard and surrounding appellations. The Pommard Premier Cru wines are particularly impressive, showing the power and depth that characterise this village.
Domaine Adelie (Mercurey)
In the Cote Chalonnaise, Domaine Adelie produces excellent value Burgundy from Mercurey and Rully. These wines offer genuine Burgundian character at accessible prices, making them ideal for everyday drinking.
The Quality Revolution
The transformation of Albert Bichot from a good negociant to an outstanding producer began in earnest under Alberic Bichot. Key changes included a shift towards organic and biodynamic viticulture, lower yields, more precise winemaking, and a focus on expressing terroir rather than house style. The results have been dramatic, with the house's wines now regularly earning high scores from international critics.
Sustainability and Innovation
Albert Bichot has been a leader in sustainable viticulture in Burgundy. The house was among the first major producers to adopt organic practices across all its domaines, and several vineyards are now farmed biodynamically. This commitment to the environment reflects a broader philosophy of working with nature rather than against it, a philosophy that is evident in the purity and authenticity of the wines.
Why We Recommend Albert Bichot
At Mosse and Mosse, we have great admiration for Albert Bichot's combination of heritage, quality, and value. The house's range spans from accessible Bourgogne wines to Grand Cru masterpieces, offering something for every occasion and budget. The consistency across the range is remarkable, and the wines consistently over-deliver at their price points.
"It's all about what's in the bottle; that's important to me."
Tim Mosse, Mosse and Mosse