Producer Profile
Domaine des Comtes Lafon
Domaine des Comtes Lafon was founded in 1869 by the Boch family, who still remain in charge of this estate today – though they renamed it after fourth-generation Dominique Lafon in 1985. They are based in Meursault, where they have holdings in some of the finest Cru and Premier Cru vineyards in the region. They have a reputation for some of the most outstanding, yet unconventional white wines, as well as their red wines from Volnay which are increasingly popular.
Their vineyards are cultivated according to organic and biodynamic practices. Care for the vines is paramount, and the age of the vines is around 40 years, with low yields of around 35 hectolitres per hectare. Historically, they had leased out a lot of their vineyards to sharecroppers, but under the stewardship of Dominique, they reclaimed a lot of the vines and assumed total control of the domaine.
Wines are made slightly differently each year, but some practices are commonplace. Chardonnay grapes are whole-bunch pressed, settled in tanks at cool temperatures then aged in oak (typically 25-40% new for Premier Cru wines). Pinot Noir grapes are 100% destemmed and vinified in stainless steel, then matured for 18-22 months in 30% new oak. They are racked, then bottled without fining or filtration.
