Nicolas Champagneux

Nicolas Champagneux’s connection to the Côte-Rôtie region is rooted in his early childhood, growing up amidst the vineyards that would shape his future. Today, Nicolas is frequently hailed as a "rising star" in the world of wine, a testament to his growing reputation and the exceptional wines he produces. Nicolas's deep ties to the region began with his father, Gérard, who served as the head of vineyard management at the legendary Guigal estate. Gérard was responsible for tending to some of Côte-Rôtie’s most prestigious vineyards, ensuring their vines produced grapes of the highest quality. Meanwhile, Nicolas’s uncle managed the family’s own vineyards, which were so prized that they were a key source of grapes for Guigal. The family produced only a few casks of wine per year, reserved exclusively for their own enjoyment, making these wines a rare and treasured commodity. Nicolas spent many formative years learning the intricacies of viticulture and winemaking under the guidance of both his father and uncle. This hands-on experience gave him a deep understanding of the land and the art of winemaking. When his uncle passed away, Nicolas inherited a parcel of one of the most renowned vineyards on Côte Brune, “Les Grandes Places.” This inheritance marked a pivotal moment in Nicolas’s life, inspiring him to officially establish the family domaine and produce wines for commercial release under the Champagneux label. For years, the grapes from the Champagneux holdings in “Les Grandes Places” had been sold to Guigal, contributing to their esteemed wines. However, with the support of his wife, Oriane, who works at Les Vins de Vienne, and the mentorship of renowned winemaker Yves Cuilleron, Nicolas decided to chart his own path. He constructed a winery and began to produce wines under his own label, crafting wines that reflect his family’s legacy and his own vision for the future of Côte-Rôtie.