Step into the world of Burgundy with us as we meet Antonin Pillot, the rising force behind his family’s historic estate in Chassagne-Montrachet.
In this episode, we explore his journey from business studies abroad to taking over winemaking at the domain, driven by passion and a deep sense of responsibility.
We dive into how he’s reshaping tradition: embracing organic farming, experimenting with indigenous yeasts, and adapting to climate change. Along the way, we discuss the unique terroirs of Chassagne-Montrachet, the challenge of working with family, and the realities of building a modern vision in a timeless region.
Join us as we uncover Antonin’s philosophy, his ambitions, and what the future of Burgundy might look like through the eyes of a new generation.
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A summary of the interview with Antonin Pillot
From family heritage to personal calling
Antonin Pillot comes from a long line of winemakers in Chassagne-Montrachet, representing the fifth generation of his family estate. Although he grew up surrounded by vineyards, his path wasn’t entirely predetermined. After studying business and spending time abroad, including in South Korea, he realized that his future was inseparable from Burgundy and wine.
This turning point led him back home, where he completed formal training in viticulture, oenology, and wine commerce before officially joining the family estate. Since 2021, he has taken over winemaking responsibilities, stepping into a role shaped by both tradition and personal ambition.
Learning beyond Burgundy
Before returning to the estate, Antonin gained valuable experience working in a wine shop, at a major Burgundy house, and abroad in Tasmania. These experiences broadened his perspective, exposing him to different terroirs, techniques, and market dynamics.
Tasmania, in particular, left a strong impression. Its cool climate and focus on Chardonnay and Pinot Noir offered parallels to Burgundy, while also introducing practical innovations, such as cooling harvested grapes, that Antonin later implemented at his family estate.
Taking over: balancing tradition and innovation
Joining a family business is never simple. Antonin had to navigate the challenge of introducing new ideas while respecting decades of experience from his father. Discussions were sometimes difficult, but a shared passion for wine helped bridge the gap.
Through experimentation, such as blind tastings and trials with new techniques, Antonin gradually earned trust. His approach is pragmatic: test, prove, and adopt what works.
A shift toward organic and natural practices
One of Antonin’s first major decisions was transitioning the estate to organic farming. Initiated in 2021 and certified later, this shift reflects his commitment to sustainability and vineyard health.
This change also influenced winemaking. He introduced indigenous yeasts, which lead to longer fermentations and more complex wines. These methods aim to enhance freshness, balance, and expression of terroir, rather than relying on technical intervention.
Rethinking winemaking techniques
Antonin Pillot has also refined aging and vinification practices. He experiments with larger barrels and foudres to reduce the dominance of oak and preserve elegance.
Additionally, inspired by warmer harvest conditions, he introduced cooling systems for grapes before processing. This helps maintain quality and control during fermentation: an increasingly important factor in the context of climate change.
Understanding Chassagne-Montrachet
Antonin describes Chassagne-Montrachet as a complex and dynamic terroir. The diversity of soils, ranging from limestone-rich to clay-heavy, allows for both white and red wines with distinct profiles.
While the region is best known for Chardonnay, Antonin highlights the underrated quality of its Pinot Noir. These red wines, often more accessible in price, reflect the clay-rich soils and offer excellent value.
Facing the challenge of climate change
Climate change is a central concern for Antonin. Rather than seeing it as a threat alone, he approaches it as a challenge requiring adaptation.
His strategies include:
- Adjusting vineyard practices (e.g., more vegetation, less soil tilling)
- Modifying winemaking techniques to preserve freshness
- Exploring balance beyond acidity, including texture and bitterness
He remains optimistic, convinced that Burgundy has the tools and knowledge to evolve while preserving its identity.
Burgundy today: between stability and change
Unlike more flexible wine regions, Burgundy offers limited opportunities for expansion due to high land prices and strict boundaries. For Antonin, the challenge is not growth in size, but excellence in quality.
His ambition is simple yet demanding: to produce consistently outstanding wines. Inspired by top estates, he hopes his own wines will one day evoke the same emotional response in others.
A global perspective on wine
Antonin’s trip to Asia reflects his desire to connect with international markets. He values meeting both partners and consumers, sharing his vision directly.
He was particularly impressed by the high level of wine knowledge in Asia and the enthusiasm for fine wines. For him, strong partnerships are essential. Importers are not just sellers, but true ambassadors of his work.
Looking ahead
Antonin is at the beginning of his journey, combining tradition with curiosity and innovation. His focus remains on refining his craft, adapting to new challenges, and expressing the full potential of his terroir.
His ultimate goal is clear: to create wines that stand out not just for their quality, but for the emotion they inspire.
Antonin Pillot recommendations
- A book: Le jour où il n’y aura plus de vin (The day when all the wine is gone), by Laure Gasparotto and Lilian Bérillon
Discover more about: Domaine Jean-Marc & Antonin Pillot
