Nestled in the quaint village of Couchey, Domaine Derey Frères embodies a rich heritage steeped in Burgundian viticulture, tracing its lineage back to 1650. However, it wasn't until the 1950s that the domaine took on the name Derey Frères, marking the establishment of its modern identity under the stewardship of brothers Albert and Maurice. Today, the legacy continues with the sixth generation at the helm: Maxime, Romain, and Pierre-Marie, a cohesive trio whose collective efforts epitomize the essence of family collaboration.
With a meticulously curated portfolio spanning 20 hectares, Domaine Derey Frères' vineyards stretch from the outskirts of Dijon to the revered terroirs of Gevrey Chambertin. Amongst these, historic vineyards once graced by the Dukes of Burgundy stand as timeless relics, echoing the storied past of the region. At its core lies the prized ten hectares in Marsannay, complemented by meticulously tended plots in Fixin and Gevrey Chambertin, each contributing to the domaine's diverse range of expressions.
Driven by a steadfast commitment to organic viticulture, the brothers have embarked on a journey of conversion, with the inaugural certified wines slated for the 2023 harvest. Winemaker Maxime, a visionary in his craft, employs a dynamic approach in the cellar, experimenting with varying degrees of whole bunch fermentation, ranging from 20% to 100%, and embracing swift, spontaneous fermentations with indigenous yeasts. The resulting wines, aged for 12 to 18 months in oak barrels, exude a captivating allure, with up to 40% new oak lending complexity and depth to the final blend.
Reflecting the spirit of the three brothers, Domaine Derey Frères' wines are hailed as "instinctive, frank, and spontaneous," offering immediate gratification with their succulent fruit profiles while promising age-worthy elegance that will stand the test of time.