Domaine de la Madone, nestled on the iconic La Madone hill in Fleurie, Beaujolais, is a historic estate run by the Després family for six generations. Spanning 17 hectares of vineyards planted on steep, south-facing slopes composed of decomposed pink granite, the domaine enjoys an ideal terroir for Gamay—Beaujolais’ signature varietal. These challenging slopes require manual cultivation, reinforcing a commitment to traditional, sustainable viticulture with a strong emphasis on soil health and biodiversity. Vines range in age, with some parcels dating back to 1889.
Vinification at Domaine de la Madone follows classic Beaujolais methods. Grapes are harvested by hand and typically undergo whole-cluster fermentation with semi-carbonic maceration.
In addition to its acclaimed still wines, Domaine de la Madone also produces a noteworthy Crémant de Bourgogne, a traditional method sparkling wine that reflects the estate’s craftsmanship and the unique terroir of the Beaujolais hills. Sourced from select plots at higher elevations, the Crémant is made primarily from Chardonnay, occasionally blended with Gamay depending on the vintage, and benefits from the cooler microclimate and granite soils that contribute to its finesse and vibrancy.
After a gentle pressing, the base wine is fermented at low temperatures in stainless steel to preserve freshness and aromatic clarity. Following a secondary fermentation in bottle, the Crémant rests on lees for 12 to 18 months, developing texture, fine mousse, and complex autolytic notes such as brioche and toasted almond. The dosage is kept low, resulting in a Brut style that is crisp, lively, and expressive.
