Etienne de Montille purchases Château de Puligny-Montrachet

Etienne de Montille, son of Huber de Montille, has been the managing director of the de Montille domain since 2001. Both studied law before they applied themselves to wine production. When it comes to vinification, father and son share the pursuit of character and taste and committed themselves to the true expression of the terroir.

It was, however, Etienne de Montille who introduced far lower yields and bio-dynamic vinification in 2001. The de Montille domain was already managed by Hubert de Motille with a heavy hand but still lagged behind the possibilities. This is how Berry Bros, a famous British wine trader, described the situation: “Before 2001, the de Montille domain used to be a sleeping giant.”

The Château de Puligny-Montrachet, the newbie, will now experience some changes. “In the end, the Credit Foncier banking company and its shareholders were not able to make the château de Puligny-Montrachet more successful”, Etienne de Montille comments the taking over. “Now, as the owner, I’m able to make decisions freely. When I re-cultivate fallow land or decide to produce lower yields, I just can do it or not.”

The purchase sum has not been reported publicly. Etienne de Montille found several investors, however. “I didn’t ask professionals but wine lovers who have been clients of the de Montille domain for long if they want to participate in the purchase of the Château de Puligny-Montrachet”, Etienne de Montille states. “Their commitment was a great opportunity not only to receive financial support but gain an insight into different markets. For my clients, it was a rare chance to show their commitment for some of the most precious terroirs in Burgundy.” (red.yoopress)