Historical

The domaine’s origins lie with the Nié-Vantey family who had considerable holdings in both Côtes in the 19^th century. The holdings passed from Georges Lochardet (early 20^th century) to his son Armand, thence to the latter’s daughter Brigitte, who married Christian Heitz, and now to Armand Heitz, who after study in Beaune and at Changins in Switzerland, has been taking back control of his branch of the family’s vineyards in various slices since 2011. Other branches of the original inheritance can be found at Domaines Vincent Dancer and Ballot-Millot.

Having initially designated the domaine wines as Domaine Armand Heitz and cuvées from purchased grapes as Armand Heitz, now the latter label is used for all wines.

Viticulture & Vinification

At the moment, for reasons of lack of space, everything is racked out of barrel in early summer and bottled before the new harvest, though this may change when space permits. The whites are picked in small cases, whole bunch pressed, left to settle for 24 hours, then the fermentation begins in tank before continuing in barrel, typically low toasted examples from Vicard and Chassin, with a maximum of 30% new wood. Closure is under DIAM since 2016.

The reds were initially 100% whole bunch fermented, which could be too much, and Armand has sensibly cut back for certain cuvées such as his Pommard Clos des Poutures from 2018. The reds are light and elegant in style.

Vineyards

Recent vineyard purchases include Domaine La Combe Vineuse in Juliénas, in the Beaujolais, and several Côte d’Or plots in partnership with the owners of Domaine Thomson (Central Otago).