Every so often, a new label comes along that makes collectors sit up and take notice. In Burgundy — one of the world’s most historic and competitive regions — that’s no small feat. Enter Louis Billard, a fifth-generation winemaker with an impeccable résumé and, as of 2022, his very first release under his own name.
Already, these wines are being described as some of the best value Burgundy on the market — but with the quality on show, it won’t stay that way for long.
Who is Louis Billard?
Louis Billard may be new to releasing wines under his own label, but he’s no newcomer to Burgundy. A fifth-generation grower, he trained and worked at some of the most iconic estates in the world — including Domaine de la Romanée-Conti (DRC), the benchmark for Pinot Noir, and Australia’s By Farr, famous for site-driven Pinot and Chardonnay.
That experience shows in the glass. His Volnay and Vosne-Romanée are even aged in ex-DRC barrels, adding another layer of prestige to wines that already punch far above their price.
Burgundy’s hierarchy: why these wines matter
French labelling laws are notoriously strict, which makes Billard’s debut all the more impressive. For his first release, he’s not just bottling regional Bourgogne wines — he’s secured village and premier cru sites, a mark of both quality and reputation.
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To put that into context, here’s Burgundy’s hierarchy from broadest to most prestigious:
- Regional appellations: Bourgogne-level wines, often from multiple sites.
- Village wines: From a specific village, reflecting more defined terroir.
- Premier Cru: Single-vineyard sites within a village, recognised for superior quality.
- Grand Cru: The pinnacle. Only a handful of vineyards earn this title.
Billard’s 2022s slot straight into the middle of that hierarchy — an incredible achievement for a debut vintage.
The wines
Vosne-Romanée 2022
Vosne-Romanée is home to some of Burgundy’s most revered wines, including those from DRC itself. Stylistically, it sits between the delicacy of Volnay and the structure of Pommard — perfumed, silky, yet with depth.
Billard’s Vosne-Romanée shows exactly why the village has such a reputation: layered aromatics, fine tannins, and a balance of elegance and power.
Volnay 1er Cru 2022
If Volnay is known for anything, it’s aromatics. Billard’s 2022 Volnay 1er Cru is lifted, floral, and expressive, with perfume leading the way before the palate reveals red fruit and subtle spice. Aging in ex-DRC barrels adds texture and polish without overwhelming the wine’s vibrancy.
Meursault 2022
Meursault is Chardonnay country — rich, full-bodied, and textural. But that body doesn’t just come from terroir. Winemaking choices play a huge role.
Billard’s Meursault shows the classic hallmarks of oxidative (as opposed to reductive) winemaking: time in oak (including some new), partial malolactic fermentation, and lees ageing. Together, these techniques build weight, complexity, and that signature creamy mouthfeel — all while keeping a fresh backbone of acidity.
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Why this debut matters
The 2022 vintage marks Louis Billard’s first under his own label — but it’s also a statement of intent. These aren’t entry-level bottlings; they’re serious, terroir-driven wines from prestigious appellations.
For collectors, that combination — fifth-generation grower, DRC training, ex-DRC barrels, and high-quality sites — makes this debut release one to watch.
And for drinkers? It’s a rare chance to enjoy Burgundy of this calibre at a price point that's unlikely to last once word spreads.
Final sip
Louis Billard’s 2022 Vosne-Romanée, Volnay 1er Cru, and Meursault are an impressive debut from a winemaker who has both history and experience on his side. They reflect not just Burgundy’s terroir, but also Billard’s thoughtful choices in the cellar.
If you’re a Burgundy lover — or just curious about one of the region’s rising stars — these are wines to secure now, before reputation (and price) catch up.
