The Estate
Located in Saint-Bris-le-Vineux, in the Yonne region, Domaine Bersan embodies a family winemaking tradition that dates back to 1453. For over five centuries, the family has upheld its expertise in the heart of northern Burgundy. Today, Jean-Louis and Jean-Christophe Bersan continue this story with passion, combining respect for heritage with openness to modern practices. The estate has gradually evolved towards organic viticulture, in line with a philosophy of working closely with nature and remaining true to the uniqueness of its terroir.
The 22 hectares of the Domaine extend over the clay-limestone hills of Saint-Bris and the Côtes d’Auxerre, with soils originating from the Kimmeridgian and Portlandian eras. This geological mosaic, combined with a cool climate, gives the wines a remarkable tension and a minerality typical of northern Burgundy. The estate has been certified organic since 2012 and also draws on biodynamic principles to preserve soil vitality and the authentic expression of the grape varieties. Notably, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Aligoté are cultivated here.
Today, Domaine Bersan has established itself as a reference in the Auxerre region, producing sincere and expressive wines. The harvests are done manually, fermentations are carried out using indigenous yeasts, and aging takes place in both stainless steel tanks and barrels, depending on the cuvées. The result: precise, vibrant, and balanced wines, where the freshness of the fruit and the purity of the terroir are fully expressed. Among the iconic cuvées, the Saint-Bris in Sauvignon Blanc captivates with its energy and finesse, while the red wines from Bourgogne Côtes d’Auxerre reveal a distinctly Burgundian elegance.
The Wine
Age of the vines: 47 years
Soil Typology: Kimmeridgian Soil
Retention period: 5 to 7 years
Grape variety: Fyé Gris (also called Fié Gris, Sauvignon gris, Sauvignon rose....)
Vinification: Pneumatic pressing, no use of exogenous yeasts, no addition of enzymes.
Only natural yeasts
Aging: 100% oak barrels (no new barrels)
Tasting
The Fyé Gris... And to think that this grape variety nearly disappeared completely, as in 1958, there were only 10 hectares left in France. The planted area in France remains very limited, with only 660 hectares. The little cousin of the Sauvignon with pale pink berries produces in the Saint-Bris appellation a wine with finer, more subtle, and more elegant aromas. A Burgundian exception, as it is only cultivated in the village of Saint-Bris le Vineux.
The 2023 vintage has given rise to a wine with floral and fruity aromas, set against a backdrop of citrus. This little gem illustrates the magic of a little-known grape variety...
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