Founded in 1750, Domaine Chanson is one of the oldest and most storied wine houses in Burgundy. Based in the heart of Beaune, with cellars dating back to the 15th century, Chanson has been a pillar of Burgundian winemaking for nearly three centuries. Today, under thoughtful modern stewardship, the domaine is producing wines of exceptional quality that honour its remarkable heritage.
A Rich History
Chanson Pere et Fils was established by Simon Verry in 1750 and later acquired by the Chanson family, who gave the house its name. For over two centuries, the house operated as both a negociant and a domaine, buying grapes and wine from across the Cote d'Or while also cultivating its own significant vineyard holdings. The house's Bastion cellars, built into the medieval fortifications of Beaune, provide ideal conditions for ageing wine.
Vineyard Holdings
Chanson owns approximately 45 hectares of vineyards, an impressive holding by Burgundy standards. The estate includes significant parcels in some of Beaune's finest Premier Cru vineyards, including Clos des Feves (a monopole), Clos des Mouches, Les Marconnets, and Les Bressandes. These vineyards, many planted on the slopes above Beaune, produce both red and white wines of remarkable character.
Modern Quality Revolution
The modern era at Chanson began in 1999 when the house was acquired by Bollinger, the Champagne house. This brought fresh investment and a renewed commitment to quality. The appointment of winemaker Jean-Pierre Confuron marked a turning point, with a focus on lower yields, organic viticulture, and more precise winemaking. The results have been dramatic, with Chanson's wines now regularly earning critical acclaim.
Winemaking Philosophy
Chanson's approach to winemaking is rooted in respect for terroir. In the vineyard, the estate practices organic and biodynamic viticulture, working with the natural rhythms of the land. In the cellar, whole-cluster fermentation is used for the reds when the vintage allows, and oak is used judiciously to complement rather than dominate the fruit. The whites are fermented and aged in a combination of barrel and tank, preserving freshness while building complexity.
Key Wines to Try
Beaune Premier Cru Clos des Feves
This monopole vineyard is Chanson's crown jewel. The red Clos des Feves is a wine of remarkable depth and elegance, combining red and dark fruit with a distinctive mineral spine. It ages beautifully and is one of the finest wines produced in Beaune.
Beaune Premier Cru Clos des Mouches
Available in both red and white, Clos des Mouches is one of Beaune's most celebrated vineyards. Chanson's white version is particularly impressive, offering a rich, complex Chardonnay with notes of white flowers, citrus, and honey.
Pernand-Vergelesses Premier Cru
An often overlooked appellation that Chanson handles with great skill. Both the red and white versions offer excellent value and genuine Burgundian character, making them ideal for those exploring the region's wines.
Why We Love Chanson
At Mosse and Mosse, we have a deep appreciation for Chanson's combination of history and modern quality. These are wines that offer genuine Burgundian character at prices that remain relatively accessible. The domaine's commitment to organic viticulture and terroir expression aligns perfectly with our own philosophy of seeking out wines of genuine quality and character.
"It's all about what's in the bottle; that's important to me."
Tim Mosse, Mosse and Mosse