Domaine Sylvain Cathiard is one of Burgundy’s most sought-after domaines, based in the village of Vosne-Romanée in the Côte de Nuits. Founded by Sylvain Cathiard in the 1930s, the estate remained a small family domaine for decades, quietly producing highly regarded Pinot Noir from prestigious Vosne-Romanée vineyards. The domaine gained international recognition through Sylvain’s son, André Cathiard, and later through his grandson Sébastien Cathiard, who took over the estate and continued to refine its winemaking philosophy.

Under Sébastien Cathiard’s leadership, the domaine has invested in meticulous vineyard management, stricter grape selection, improved cellar precision and a more restrained approach to oak ageing. Today, Domaine Sylvain Cathiard is recognised for producing Burgundy wines with exceptional purity, depth and elegance, particularly from appellations such as Vosne-Romanée, Nuits-Saint-Georges and Chambolle-Musigny. The Bourgogne Aligoté represents a more accessible entry point into the Cathiard portfolio, demonstrating that the domaine applies the same level of care and attention even to regional Burgundy wines.

The 2021 Domaine Sylvain Cathiard Bourgogne Aligoté is made from 100% Aligoté, Burgundy’s traditional white grape variety that has historically been overshadowed by Chardonnay but is increasingly recognised for its freshness, minerality and ability to express terroir. The wine comes primarily from old vines in the Villers-la-Faye area, including parcels planted in the 1940s, with additional fruit from Nuits-Saint-Georges. The wine was vinified in stainless steel tanks and bottled in April following the harvest, preserving its vibrant and precise character.

The 2021 vintage displays the classic qualities of refined Aligoté: bright acidity, saline minerality and a clean, refreshing finish. Aromas include lemon zest, green apple, lime, white peach, greengage and white flowers, with subtle chalky and saline notes. The palate is dry and energetic, combining youthful tension with a delicate texture and impressive length. Unlike simple versions of Aligoté designed mainly for casual drinking, Cathiard’s interpretation offers greater finesse and complexity, reflecting the quality of the old vines and the domaine’s meticulous approach.

" ultra-fresh and bright profile, highlighting aromas of citrus, green apple and discreet spice. The palate is described as racy and beautifully delineated, with strong mineral character, crunchy freshness and a dry finish with youthful austerity that should soften with short bottle ageing. " -- Burghound , Allen Meadows