Gilles Berlioz, a self-taught Frenchman, hailing from a humble background of a factory worker, has made a remarkable journey in the wine industry. His passion for viticulture took root in 1990 when he started his winegrowing career with just 0.8 hectares of vines in Chignin, Savoie. With his partner Christine by his side, Gilles gradually expanded his estate to its current size of 4.5 hectares.
Before becoming a winemaker, Gilles worked as a landscape gardener, which instilled in him a deep appreciation for nature. He brings this sensitivity to his estate, which he converted to organic farming in 2005, and later adopted biodynamic practices (not certified). Horses play a crucial role in his viticulture, as the estate's vines are ploughed without the use of chemical weedkillers, promoting environmentally-friendly practices.
Gilles Berlioz's winemaking philosophy is simple - "one terroir, one grape variety, one cuvée." This principle guides his production, highlighting the unique expression of each terroir. Gilles is also passionate about showcasing the richness of Savoy's terroirs, cultivating local grape varieties such as Jacquère, Altesse, and Roussanne. This allows him to produce authentic wines that are a true representation of Savoie's diverse terroirs.
The estate was renamed "Domaine Partagé" in 2016, symbolizing Gilles and Christine's collaborative and community-driven approach. This shared mindset has led them to foster a culture of dialogue, exchange, and solidarity within their team and with other winemakers. This continuous learning and improvement contribute to the estate's commitment to sustainable, respectful viticulture.
Each bottle produced by Domaine Partagé is a testament to Gilles and Christine's dedication to nature, terroir, and community. Their wines are highly sought after by Savoie wine lovers and connoisseurs alike, as they embody the perfect blend of sustainable practices and high-quality viticulture. Gilles Berlioz's journey is a true inspiration, and his wines are a testament to his unwavering commitment to preserving Savoie's winemaking heritage.
