Oliver Leflaive

Olivier Leflaive: the combination of tradition and innovation in Burgundy wines

At Olivier Leflaive, producing great wines begins in the vineyard. Maintaining the vineyard requires dedication throughout all seasons, with the goal of harvesting the highest quality grapes. But it goes beyond that. It also involves understanding that the land is passed down from generation to generation, blending respect for the past with responsibility for the future. Maison Olivier Leflaive carefully manages this balance with care and commitment.

A diverse vineyard estate at Maison Olivier Leflaive

Maison Olivier Leflaive started with just four plots in Puligny-Montrachet but has expanded its estate over the years to 26 hectares, spread across 82 Climats. These are mainly located in the prestigious appellations of Puligny-Montrachet, Meursault, and Chassagne-Montrachet. Through patient inheritance and careful acquisitions, Olivier Leflaive has built a valuable viticultural heritage, including famous Premiers Crus and Grands Crus.

Respect for nature at Olivier Leflaive

At Olivier Leflaive, everything revolves around respect for nature. The winemaking team works with the seasons and adapts to nature’s demands. Every detail, from plowing to pruning, is meticulously planned to minimize the strain on the vineyard. Thanks to this sustainable approach, the vineyard has achieved the High Environmental Value (level 3) certification.

Maison Olivier Leflaive aims to make the diversity of Burgundy appellations accessible to a broad audience. By collaborating with other winegrowers, the estate offers a wide range of terroirs, with a focus on white wines of exceptional elegance and quality. This innovative approach, initiated by Olivier Leflaive 40 years ago, has resulted in a diverse portfolio that encompasses nearly all appellations of the Côte de Beaune, Côte Chalonnaise, and Chablis.

Maison Olivier Leflaive is more than a winery

It is a family business that passes on its passion for wine from generation to generation. This sense of family is evident in every bottle. Since its founding in 1984, a dedicated team of nearly 50 employees has worked together to promote the values of Burgundy and its wines. A shared commitment to quality, vintage after vintage, remains the backbone of Olivier Leflaive's success.

At Olivier Leflaive, the vineyard is central. Daily inspections of the plots ensure the highest quality grapes, which are hand-harvested at the perfect moment. Vinification follows a precise, terroir-driven approach. For white wines like Chardonnay, the process begins with gentle pressing and fermentation in oak barrels. Red wines, like Pinot Noir, require more attention with techniques such as pigeage (submerging the grape skins) to add structure and color.

The ageing process of olivier leflaive wines

The aging process of Olivier Leflaive wines takes place in French oak barrels from the Vosges, Allier, and Jura regions. Under the careful supervision of technical director Solène Panigai and oenologist Philippe Grillet, each wine receives the attention it deserves, with daily tastings to ensure optimal flavor and quality.

With respect for tradition and an eye toward the future, Olivier Leflaive continues to strive for excellence. By continually innovating while staying true to the Burgundy wine culture, the estate ensures that each bottle is a true expression of its terroir. This is the promise of Olivier Leflaive: to produce fine wines that make dreams come true, from vineyard to glass.