Négociants

Négociants are wine merchants who buy grapes or unfinished wine from growers and then age, blend, and bottle the wine under their own label. The term "négociant" is French and translates to "merchant" or "trader." This business model is particularly prevalent in Burgundy, France, where many négociants have built reputations for producing high-quality wines from various vineyard sources.

Négociants play a significant role in the wine industry by providing a market for grape growers and by offering a diverse range of wines to consumers. They often specialize in specific regions or appellations, sourcing grapes from numerous small producers. This allows them to create cuvées that represent a particular appellation or style, often with a consistent quality year after year.

The business of a négociant can vary. Some focus on acquiring grapes and fermenting them themselves, while others purchase wine after fermentation and focus on blending, aging, and bottling. Their expertise lies in their understanding of vineyard sites, their ability to select quality grapes or unfinished wines, and their skill in blending to achieve a desired final product. The reputation of a négociant is crucial, as consumers often trust established names to deliver reliable quality. This model contrasts with that of a "domaine," where a producer owns vineyards and makes wine solely from their own grapes.