Mr Bernard Defaix

Domaine Bernard Defaix is a long-standing family business with a rich history in Chablis. Belonging to the fourth generation of a winemaking family, Bernard Defaix started in 1959 with a vineyard of just 2 hectares. Over the years, the vineyard grew steadily and now covers around 26 hectares. It is divided between Petit Chablis, Chablis and Chablis Premier Cru. For more than 20 years, the vineyard has been run by Bernard’s two sons, Didier and Sylvain. Sylvain is responsible for the vinification, ageing, bottling and preparation of the wines. Didier focuses on vineyard management, marketing, sales and the general administration of the winery.

Since 2012, the winery has followed an organic, ecological and sustainable farming system, focusing on preserving the health of the soil and the vines. The vineyard workers use an extensive but carefully controlled ploughing system to maintain the quality of the soil. This system ensures that the roots of the vines are oxygenated deep into the soil. This is crucial for the health of the plants. In addition, ploughing helps to prevent erosion. Especially on plots located on sloping terrain. This method favours the quality of the grapes, resulting in wines of exceptional purity and finesse.

All grapes for Domaine Bernard Defaix wines come exclusively from their own vineyards. Vinification takes place mainly in stainless steel tanks, to best express the characteristic minerality of Chablis. Depending on the vintage and the characteristics of the cuvée, the wines are aged between 8 and 12 months on their fine lees, which contribute to the complexity and texture of the wines. Didier and Sylvain’s goal is clear: they want to preserve the unique characteristics of each terroir and bring them to life in the wines. The result is wines that not only offer precise, pure and mineral flavours, but also a lively freshness that makes your mouth water. Bernard Defaix Chablis is therefore crisp, acidic and makes every sip a refreshing experience.

Wines from Bernard Defaix