Thomas Finot: eco-wine revival

"By nurturing the vines' natural defences and limiting copper to allow the soil to live, the wine achieves more depth and balance."

Nearly two decades ago, Thomas Finot arrived in Bernin, on the Isère’s right bank, with a vision to revive the Grésivaudan grape varieties. Today, his meticulously crafted wines grace the tables of the most esteemed restaurants, a testament to his dedication and expertise.

Between 1850 and 1900, Isère was France’s third largest wine region, with 33,000 hectares of vineyards, a third located in the Grésivaudan, from Voiron to Chapareillan.

Golden age

Rebirth of a vineyard

In 2007, Thomas Finot, a passionate winegrower, moved to Bernin to revive some abandoned vines.

After completing his studies in viticulture and oenology, this Drôme native was captivated by the area’s unique charm, nestled in the foothills of the Chartreuse mountains. The conditions here are perfect for crafting exceptional wines.

And so, Domaine Finot was born, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the region’s viticultural history.

On the sunny slopes of the Chartreuse

Vendanges au Domaine Finot coteaux du Grésivaudan

Local grape varieties…

“We are fortunate to have a beautiful south-easterly exposure, abundant deep springs and well-draining clay-limestone soil that retains moisture even in high temperatures.”

From the outset, Thomas has focused on local grape varieties, Persian and Etraire de la Dhuy for red wines and Verdesse for white. He practices organic farming.

… culture & biodynamism

Thomas cultivates his vines using biodynamic methods, an ancestral technique that respects the natural cycles of the moon and stars, guiding pruning and planting.

“By nurturing the vines’ natural defences and limiting copper to allow the soil to live, the wine achieves more depth and balance,” he explains. Though initial yields were challenging, quality soon followed.

In 2011, Thomas’s efforts were eventually recognised by renowned restaurateurs, including Michelin-starred chef Maison Aribert of La Table in Uriage.

Picked by hand