Charles Lachaux

Son of Pascal Lachaux and Florence Arnoux, Charles Lachaux is today one of the most innovative and debated figures in Burgundian viticulture. Since 2012, he has been leading Domaine Arnoux-Lachaux, the historic family estate in Vosne- Romanée, and in 2018 he also founded his own négoce, based right in the village where he grew up.

After his studies, Charles began his practical training at one of the most legendary names in the region, Domaine Armand Rousseau, where he worked under the guidance of Eric Rousseau. This first step into the wine world was followed by various international experiences that helped shape his original and unconventional approach.

One of Charles’s most genuine passions is Aligoté. Although his family had stopped vinifying it, selling it to négociants when it lost popularity, Charles decided to bring it back into the spotlight. He started vinifying and bottling it under his own label, purchasing it directly from the family domaine.

In his first year of production, he created six labels, all obtained from grapes bought from trusted friends, grown sustainably and with great attention to quality. The project grew quickly: the wines produced increased to six in 2019 and eight in 2020.

Charles’s philosophy is based on biodynamic principles, applied with rigor and conviction. No mechanical methods are used in the vineyard, and grass grows freely. The pruning follows a system he developed himself, called the “Arnoux- Lachaux Gobelet,” an evolution of the Guyot-Poussard, which allows the shoots to be raised up to 1.6 meters high, compared to the traditional 100–110 centimeters. This agronomic gesture reflects his intention to increase leaf surface area and promote a more natural balance of the vine.

Also in the cellar, Charles adopts an approach consistent with his vision. All grapes are hand-harvested, fermentations are spontaneous with indigenous yeasts, and for red wines 100% whole clusters are used, with short macerations, never exceeding two weeks.

The visual identity of Charles’s label is equally personal. Designed by his wife Louise, it depicts a delicate rose, in tribute to their firstborn, Rose. A sign of care and intimacy that reflects the entire project.

Today, Charles Lachaux is recognized as one of Burgundy’s most forward- thinking and radical producers. His choices, often against the grain, demonstrate extraordinary dedication to quality and research, creating wines that authentically express their place of origin and the personality of their maker.