Wine Arnaud Lopez - Maison Pinot Noar Bourgogne Lazaro, 2022

Arnaud Lopez – A Visionary Winemaker from Nuits-Saint-Georges

Arnaud Lopez is not just an emerging talent in Burgundy—he is a seasoned winemaker with deep experience and an uncompromising vision. Born and raised in Nuits-Saint-Georges, he has been surrounded by vineyards and cellars since childhood. However, his journey into winemaking was unconventional. Initially an educator, Arnaud transitioned to viticulture at the age of 35, joining the legendary Domaine Prieuré Roch in 2007. Over the next 15 years, he honed his craft, meticulously tending to some of Burgundy’s finest vineyards before founding his own project, Maison Pinot Noar (an anagram of his name).

His first independent vintage was released in 2018, though the quantities were so small that only a few people had access to his wines. By 2022, he fully dedicated himself to Maison Pinot Noar, working out of his own cellar in Nuits-Saint-Georges. The production remains deliberately small, allowing Arnaud to personally oversee every aspect of the winemaking process without compromise.

Vineyard & Winemaking Philosophy

Arnaud sources his grapes exclusively from organic vineyards, collaborating with growers who share his perfectionist approach to viticulture. Many of these growers are close friends, and Arnaud is personally involved in vineyard work throughout the year.

In the cellar, his experience at Prieuré Roch is immediately recognizable. His approach includes:

• Whole-cluster fermentation, which enhances aromatic complexity and structure.
• Long macerations, lasting up to four weeks, with a balance of punch-downs and pump-overs in the final weeks.
• Minimal intervention, allowing the wines to express their terroir with purity.
• Aging in neutral oak (exclusively old 228L pièces bourguignonnes) and a few small amphorae.

The wines are dense, mineral, and energetic, showing remarkable intensity while remaining effortlessly drinkable. They are enjoyable in their youth but have the structure to age beautifully over time.

Wine Style & Signature Characteristics

Arnaud’s wines stand among the best of Burgundy, characterized by explosive aromatics, vibrant energy, and deep complexity. His Morey-Saint-Denis cuvées, such as Lazaro, showcase the influence of the terroir with ripe, velvety dark fruit, fine tannins, and a distinctive saline finish typical of the region.

Despite limited production and overwhelming demand, Arnaud remains committed to his hands-on, artisan approach. His wines are a true reflection of his passion, skill, and dedication—each bottle encapsulating the essence of Burgundy at its finest.