Domaine Simon Bize hasn't changed much of anything in the last couple of decades, but the world around them is starting to catch up. They have always used a high percentage of whole clusters during... Read More

Domaine Simon Bize hasn't changed much of anything in the last couple of decades, but the world around them is starting to catch up. They have always used a high percentage of whole clusters during fermentation (dependent on vintage) and very little new oak. They're style is perfectly suited to the terroir of Savigny and their wines have always emphasized the more savory aspects of Pinot: spices, herbs and earthy, gamey sauvage.

This approach isn't new, in fact it is somewhat similar to how many of the domaines in Burgundy would have made wine 100 years ago. But in the mid 20th century innovators like Henri Jayer begin advocating for 100% de-stemming along with longer macerations etc. The idea was to counterbalance the cold and difficult growing conditions in the Cote d'Or. Fast forward 50-60 years and Burgundy's weather has warmed significantly.

The changing climate along with a shift in consumer preferences to less oaky, less powerful wines puts Simon Bize back in the height of wine ""fashion"". But even when the ""style"" eventually goes out of fashion it is unlikely that Bize will change a thing. That is the legacy of the late, great Patrick Bize, and now his wife and family continue the tradition.