North South Wines has expanded into Burgundy for the first time with Jean Bouchard, part of the Albert Bichot family of estates. 

The partnership will begin with the launch of 13 wines that showcase diversity in the region, released in the UK across on-trade and off-trade channels. 

The wine house, which is based in Beaune, has existed for nearly two centuries and was acquired by the Bichot family in 1995. 

At Jean Bouchard, all the Burgundy terroirs are represented, ranging from Chablis in the north to the Mâconnais in the south, passing through the Côte d’Or. After being picked, the wines are vinified in-house. 

According to North South Wines, the UK off-trade range includes Mâcon-Villages, Mâcon-Lugny, Bourgogne Chardonnay, Bourgogne Gamay, Bourgogne Pinot Noir, Hautes Côtes de Beaune and Côte de Beaune Villages.  

The UK on-trade offering includes Mâcon Milly Lamartine, Chablis, St Véran, Hautes Côtes de Nuits, Fixin Rouge and Savigny Les Beaune. 

Tim Carlisle, head of independents and on trade at North South Wines, said: “We are delighted to make our first step into the Burgundy market and represent Maison Jean Bouchard on the UK market. This is a truly exciting partnership with one of Burgundy’s most respected houses, backed by the historic Albert Bichot family.” 

Denis Anjuere, export manager at Domaines Albert Bichot, added: “We are honoured to partner with North South Wines. Jean Bouchard is part of a family group that applies the highest standards of quality and terroir expression and offers a complete range of Burgundies. We look forward to working with the proactive team at North South and growing our presence in the UK market.”