Domaine de la Perrière

Terroir Summary

The vineyards of Domaine de la Perrière are located around the village of Chemilly-sur-Serein in northern Burgundy, close to Chablis. The estate’s Chablis vineyards are planted predominantly on classic Kimmeridgian soils, renowned for their limestone-rich structure and strong influence on the region’s distinctive mineral style. Many plots feature shallow soils, with limestone bedrock reached just 30 centimetres below the surface, encouraging vines to root deeply and contributing complexity and freshness to the wines. Petit Chablis vineyards are situated on sloping sites around Chichée, where stony soils and varied exposures further diversify the estate’s expressions of Chardonnay.

Heritage

Roger Mathieu began cultivating vines in Chablis alongside traditional mixed farming on his family estate. During the early 1990s, his two sons recognised the growing demand for Chablis and transformed the family vineyards into a commercial operation, expanding holdings through inheritance and acquisition. Initially, production was sold through local cooperatives and négociants, helping establish the family’s viticultural reputation. The third generation became actively involved in the early 2000s, gradually growing vineyard holdings through family transfers, purchases and rentals. A milestone came in 2019, when Alexandre Mathieu and his three cousins created Domaine de la Perrière and launched the family’s wines under their own label for the first time. Since then, the estate has expanded from around six hectares to more than twenty-two hectares, producing approximately 75,000 bottles annually while continuing to invest in the future growth of the domaine.

Philosophy

Vineyard quality and fruit maturity are placed at the centre of every decision. The family believes that exceptional wines begin in the vineyard, with careful attention to site selection, vine health and harvest timing. Grapes are generally harvested at full maturity to achieve ripeness and concentration while maintaining the freshness and mineral character that define Chablis. In the cellar, intervention is deliberately minimal. Direct pressing, fermentation and ageing in stainless steel allow the purity of the fruit and the expression of terroir to remain the focus. This straightforward approach reflects the family’s commitment to producing honest Burgundy wines that are true to their origins and respectful of the region’s traditions.

People

Domaine de la Perrière is led by four members of the third generation. Alexandre Mathieu oversees sales and marketing, bringing experience gained at other respected Chablis estates before returning to the family domaine. His cousin Romain Borges directs winemaking and vineyard production, having studied winemaking and gained international vintage experience (in Australia) before joining the family estate. Elodie Borges manages administration, while Ophélie Borges is responsible for viticulture and vineyard management. The family continues to benefit from the experience of Alexandre’s father, Hervé Mathieu, who remains actively involved in vineyard operations.