For a long time, the English have been overshadowed in the wine world by their French counterparts — the cooler, less consistent UK climate has meant that only certain hardier grape varieties thrive there. But things are changing, and with shifting temperatures and better viticultural practices, the south of England may increasingly challenge regions across the Channel — after all, it shares geological similarities with northern France.
Sometimes, an English wine-lover goes one step further and relocates to France to make wine. That is exactly what happened with Englishman Stephen Whitehead, who met his future wife, Delphine Rebourgeon, from Burgundy — and became part of the story of Domaine Rebourgeon, an unusual one amongst Burgundy winemakers.
The Domaine’s history is fascinating and unusually long. The estate traces its roots back to 1540. More recently, Delphine’s grandmother, Marie married Emile Claude Rebourgeon, from whom the current name of the domaine derives. One of their sons, Michel, took over part of the estate in 1964.
Stephen Whitehead, meanwhile, had been running a wine business in the UK during the 1980s. It was during that time that he met Delphine. When Michel approached retirement, Stephen left his UK business and joined the family domaine in Burgundy. Their son, William Whitehead, now leads the estate and is widely recognised as a rising talent in the region amongst Burgundy winemakers.
Today the estate works 4.25 hectares of vines (≈10.5 acres) distributed across the communes of Pommard, Beaune and Volnay. Annual production is around 20,000 bottles.
To read more about other Burgundy appellations and the Burgundy winemakers that work there, why not visit our website and learn about them?
In the cellar and vineyard, the Domaine Rebourgeon emphasises tradition, minimal intervention and respect for terroir. For example, they carry out much of the vineyard work themselves: pruning, green-picking, tilling instead of herbicides. In the 2020 vintage they recorded very low yields (≈28-30 hl/ha) on their first year of organic conversion. For the “La Vache” cuvée (from vines planted in 1902 on the La Vache parcel) the 2021 vintage came from up to 120-year-old vines, with tiny production (just two barrels!) and is already earning acclaim.
From Our Cellar: the Best of Burgundy Winemakers
Here at burgundywine.com by Elden Selection we stock a number wines from Domaine Rebourgeon – all at the best prices you will find, and all with shipping included on cases to the mainland USA.
- Pommard ‘Cuvee William’: 18 months in 100% new oak — ambitious for a village wine, yet perfectly judged. Silky oak tones are absorbed into the wine’s dense fruit, while vivid mineral tension drives a long, elegant finish. Impeccably balanced and masterfully executed.
- Beaune 1er Cur ‘Les Chouacheux’: From a parcel situated just below Beaune 1er Cru Vignes-Franches, this wine shows the unmistakable depth of old vines. Refined red-berry fruit unfolds gracefully toward a firm, structured finish. There’s an ethereal freshness and lift, typical of the Volnay side of Beaune, with the fruit lingering sweetly on a vibrant line of acidity. Beautifully balanced and already charming in its youth.
- Pommard 1er Cru ‘Les Pezerolles‘: A textbook example of Pézerolles. The first impression is pure minerality, followed by an almost ethereal charm. Layers unfold — floral notes, black cherry, cherry stone, and a touch of licorice — creating a wine that’s juicy, complex, and finely textured. Suave yet vibrant, with a long, resonant finish that lingers beautifully.
- Volnay 1er Cru ‘Carelle Sous la Chapelle’: This may be the most delicate and enchanting of Volnay wines. On the palate it is silky and gossamer-light, somehow combining intensity with effortless grace. There are notes of earth, dark chocolate, and smoky minerality, while those unmistakable Volnay violets rise to a thrilling, lingering finish.
- Pommard 1er Cru ‘Les Arvelets’: From one of Pommard’s smallest Premier Cru sites — a south-facing slope with rich, valley-bottom soils — comes a wine of depth and precision. Dark garnet colour, blackcurrant and licorice aromas, dense palate with bitter-chocolate texture and spice. A firm mineral line and lively acidity drive the long finish.
- Bourgogne Blanc – after all that red, why not try a white? This one is from a plot of less than half an acre, between Pommard and Beaune. It’s floral, with hints of green apple and a floral freshness. Great density and depth.
Discover the Heart of Burgundy at Domaine de Cromey
In the very heart of Burgundy wine country — surrounded by centuries of history, miles of vineyards and famous Burgundy winemakers — you’ll find Domaine de Cromey, our home in Burgundy, ready to become yours for an unforgettable stay. Here, you’re invited to experience the beauty, the wine, and the lifestyle of Burgundy — entirely your way.
Guests at Domaine de Cromey usually choose between two unique ways to enjoy their Burgundy escape.
Option 1: The Burgundy House Party
Gather your family or closest friends — up to twelve guests (fourteen if needed) — and make the estate your own. You’ll have exclusive access to everything: the gardens and pool, the elegant salon, tasting room, dining room, and luxurious accommodations. With your private chef, concierge, and dedicated staff on hand, every detail is tailored to you. It’s your personal château for the week — a true trip of a lifetime.
Option 2: Mix & Meet Week
Prefer to travel in smaller numbers, or simply want to meet fellow wine lovers? Our Mix & Meet weeks offer the same extraordinary experience — just with a convivial twist. You’ll share the estate with other gastronauts, folk who love discovering great wine, and good company. Before long, strangers become friends, and the week turns into a house party all its own. In this wine vacation of a lifetime, you’ll live like a local, meet the best of Burgundy winemakers, taste wines rarely seen on the shelves, and create memories that will last forever.
To learn more about the magic of a Burgundy stay at Domaine de Cromey, visit our website or explore our sample itinerary for a taste of what awaits.
All stays are week-long, running from Sunday to Saturday.
New from October 2025: Three-Night stays at Cromey, with exactly the same all-inclusive style as our House Parties! We can’t wait to welcome you.