The Passion for Wine: From the Towers of Dubai to Domaine Dozon

A Profile of Eric Santier, Winemaker in Chinon

Name: Eric Santier
Occupation: Winemaker
Region: Loire
Appellation: Chinon

Domaine Dozon: Terroir and Grape Varieties in Chinon

The wines of Domaine Dozon

The estate: The entire 14-hectare estate is located in the hamlet of Le Saut au Loup in Ligré, on the left bank of the Vienne River, within the Chinon AOC. Spanning two types of soil—clay-siliceous at the top of the hillsides and clay-limestone at the bottom—the contiguous vineyard faces south and southeast. Owned by the DOZON family for five generations, Eric took over the estate in 2013.

His journey… Why wine? Eric doesn’t come from a family of winemakers. Yet, as a native of Chinon, he is well acquainted with the wine-growing heritage of the region where he grew up. After working in France and abroad in the food industry and then in wine marketing—promoting wines both in France and internationally—he decided to change careers. He left Dubai and its skyscrapers to begin his training in Bordeaux, then worked for a year and a half at a vineyard in Chinon. It was after this that he embarked on this wonderful adventure in winemaking with Domaine Dozon.

Latest news: “We are currently in a period of reflection regarding the implementation of soil management (vineyard management). Ultimately, this new approach could lead us toward organic farming. First, it’s essential to figure out how to evolve our vineyard management practices and limit the use of chemicals. It also involves testing the equipment and the plots so that we can gradually transform the vineyard.”

Its reincarnation as wine: A Burgundy white: Meursault.

His favorite time of year: The one we’re currently experiencing, with the arrival of spring, which heralds the start of warmer weather. The vines are coming back to life: first the sap begins to flow, then the buds appear, and finally the leaves start to grow.

His personality: “Calm, composed, and thoughtful. I’m not really a hothead! Maybe that’s my Libra side.”

His most memorable encounter: When he had the opportunity to work with Bernard Baudry in Chinon, a leading figure in the appellation. “He is a very down-to-earth person who takes pleasure in sharing his knowledge and passion for wine.”

Something to avoid/you’ll hate this: early spring like we’ve had this year, with unseasonably warm temperatures that cause nature to wake up—especially the vines—followed by the risk of frosts right up until the “Ice Saints,” as the old folks used to say…

Why Les Grappes? “I liked the project presentation. It’s appealing and well put together! A clear approach and a well-thought-out sales and logistics strategy.”

What do you like about your job? “What I like most is definitely the variety of my work. It starts, of course, in the vineyards with tending the land, then moves to the winery, where I take on the role of winemaker. Finally, my day ends in the shoes of a sales representative, meeting and connecting with my customers.”

Who’s the best-known person to have taste your wine? “No fuss—just a real tasting with friends or clients. Everything else is just window dressing.”

Les Grappes' Top Pick:
Domaine DOZON “Le Clos du Saut au Loup”: A well-balanced wine with good body and lovely finesse, perfect for pairing with poultry or for a barbecue with friends.