At Domaine Fontaine-Gagnard, the key to producing rich wines with strong mineral intensity lies in a commitment to organic methods and the judicious use of oak aging. This estate came into existence in 1985 when the Gagnard estate was divided between two daughters. Each daughter combined her husband’s name with Gagnard to form their new domaines. Laurence, the daughter of Jacques and Marie-Josephe Gagnard, married Richard Fontaine, an air force engineer. Today, their capable daughter, Céline, is an integral part of the estate.
Covering 12 hectares of vines primarily in Chassagne-Montrachet, with additional parcels in Volnay and Pommard, Domaine Fontaine-Gagnard is celebrated for its white wines. However, their reds, which offer pure expressions of Pinot Noir, should not be overlooked. Their wines are aged in oak barrels for a duration of 12 to 18 months, during which they refine their distinctive character. Careful attention is paid to oak usage with sources specially selected to ensure the purest reflection of the vineyards’ terroirs. The proportion of new oak barrels varies, with Village appellations embracing 15-20%, while Premiers Crus and Grands Crus benefit from 30-40% new oak.