Domaine Sylvain Pataille — precision, authenticity & pure expression of Marsannay terroir

Based in Marsannay-la-Côte, at the northern end of the Côte de Nuits, Sylvain Pataille has, since 1999, become one of the most respected and influential winemakers of his generation. His 15-hectare estate is farmed according to biodynamic principles and natural viticulture, combining technical precision, respect for living soils and a deep connection to terroir. A driving force behind Marsannay’s growing reputation, he has shown that the appellation can rival Burgundy’s most prestigious crus.

Philosophy & viticulture

Certified organic since 2008 and practicing biodynamics, the estate relies on meticulous manual work: gentle ploughing, natural cover crops, controlled yields, and respect for lunar and seasonal rhythms. Sylvain Pataille seeks to express Burgundy’s classic grape varieties in their purest form, on limestone and marl soils that impart mineral finesse and crystalline elegance.

• Pinot Noir — energetic and precise reds.
• Chardonnay — tense, vibrant, saline whites.
• Aligoté — benchmark cuvées that restored the variety’s noble status.

Vinification & ageing

• Spontaneous fermentations with indigenous yeasts.
• Long macerations with a significant proportion of whole clusters for the reds.
• Extended ageing over two winters in old barrels or large foudres to preserve aromatic integrity.
• Minimal SO₂ use, only when necessary; no oenological manipulation.

Style of the wines

Pataille’s wines combine aromatic finesse, vibrant energy and honest terroir expression. The reds display a precise, linear structure with fine tannins and fresh red fruit and spice notes. The whites are taut, saline and mineral, rivaling some of the Côte de Beaune’s best crus. The Aligoté bottlings are now considered absolute benchmarks of the variety, with outstanding ageing potential.

Signature cuvées

• Bourgogne Aligoté — flagship cuvée, tense and mineral, with a crystalline texture.
• Marsannay “L’Ancestrale” — old-vine Pinot Noir, ample, precise and profound.
• Marsannay “Les Charmes aux Prêtres” — high-altitude Chardonnay, vibrant, saline and pure.

Reputation

Respected by fellow winemakers and international critics, Sylvain Pataille embodies a new generation of Burgundy: demanding, sincere, and committed to the truth of the land. His wines are sought after for their authenticity, natural balance and consistent quality — a key force in elevating Marsannay to the forefront of Burgundy’s fine wine landscape.