Winemaker
François de Nicolay
- Discipline
- Winemaker
- Based in
- Savigny-lès-Beaune, France
i. Biography
Signature
The house style associated with François de Nicolay is holistic, biodynamic, and low-intervention. At Domaine Chandon de Briailles, that means the vineyard is used to define the wine rather than having the wine pushed into shape in the cellar. The stated methods are direct: native yeasts, no pumping over, no filtration, no sulfur in some bottlings, and hand bottling by the *chevre a deux becs* method. The result is a practice built around restraint, texture, and site expression. François de Nicolay's signature wines include Corton Blanc and Mercurey Les Montelons. Those cuvées fit the same frame: wines made to age and to show themselves gradually, not all at once.
Recognition/etc Demeter certification followed in 2011.
Profile updated July 2026
FAQ
Asked of François
“I like the wines after 10 years here – of course Corton can age, but now I like to drink the 1998, 1991 and 1990.”
What is François de Nicolay's current role?
As of 2026, François de Nicolay is Co-manager.
Where did François de Nicolay work before?
François de Nicolay's earlier career included wine distribution and own shop.
What is François de Nicolay known for?
Holistic, biodynamic, low-intervention winemaking with native yeasts, no pumping over, no filtration, no sulfur in some bottlings, and hand bottling by the "chevre a deux becs" method.
Explore
Similar Winemakers
