Henri Gouges Estate: Tradition and Expertise in the Heart of Nuits-Saint-Georges

A Century-Old Family History

Founded in 1920 by Henri Gouges, the estate embodies a century of passion and dedication to winemaking. Henri, a visionary and staunch advocate for Nuits-Saint-Georges wines, was among the first vignerons to bottle and market his own production, breaking away from the traditional practice of selling grapes to négociants. His commitment to quality and authenticity laid the foundation for the estate’s long-standing reputation for excellence. Over generations, the Gouges family has preserved and enriched this heritage, passing down expertise and a deep respect for the terroir.

An Exceptional Vineyard in the Heart of Côte de Nuits

The estate spans 14 hectares, exclusively located in Nuits-Saint-Georges, at the heart of the prestigious Côte d'Or in Burgundy. Among its most renowned plots are seven Premier Cru vineyards, including the family’s monopole, Clos des Porrets Saint-Georges. Each parcel is cultivated with meticulous care to express the unique characteristics of its terroir, from the limestone-rich soils of Les Pruliers to the clay-dominant structure of Les Vaucrains. This diversity allows Henri Gouges Estate to produce wines of remarkable complexity and depth.

Sustainable Viticulture and Precision Winemaking

Committed to preserving the integrity of its land, the estate has adopted organic farming practices since the early 2000s. Today, the vineyards are cultivated without synthetic chemicals, with careful attention to soil health and biodiversity. Manual harvesting ensures optimal grape selection, and vinification follows a philosophy of minimal intervention. Fermentations occur with indigenous yeasts, and aging is conducted in carefully selected French oak barrels to enhance, rather than overpower, the purity of the fruit.

Wines That Embody Elegance and Structure

Henri Gouges wines are renowned for their structure, aging potential, and refined expression of Nuits-Saint-Georges terroirs. The Clos des Porrets Saint-Georges Premier Cru stands out for its robust tannins and deep complexity, while Les Saint-Georges, considered a potential Grand Cru, offers an exceptional balance of power and finesse. The estate is also known for its rare white wine, made from a mutation of Pinot Noir known as Pinot Gouges, adding an unexpected yet fascinating dimension to its portfolio.

A Benchmark for Burgundy Enthusiasts

With a heritage rooted in both tradition and evolution, Henri Gouges Estate remains a benchmark for Burgundy wine lovers. Its wines, celebrated for their authenticity and longevity, are sought after by collectors and connoisseurs worldwide. Today, under the stewardship of Grégory and Antoine Gouges, the estate continues to refine its approach, embracing modern techniques while honoring the vision of its founder. The legacy of Henri Gouges lives on in each bottle, a testament to the family’s unwavering pursuit of excellence.