Exploring Biodynamic and Organic Practices at Our Estate in Essoyes
Nestled in the heart of Essoyes, in the Aube region of the Côte des Bar, our estate spans 4 hectares of rich, fertile land. In 2010, we embarked on a journey to convert to Organic Farming, dedicating ourselves to vinifying our own harvests. By 2013, we achieved AB (Organic Farming) certification, solidifying our commitment to sustainability and quality. Moreover, since 2014, we have embraced biodynamic principles, with our grapes now bearing the Demeter certification, affirming our holistic approach to viticulture.
The Unique Terroir of La Fosse
The vineyard at La Fosse, home to our Fosse-Grely and Papillon cuvées, is defined by its distinctive soil composition—red clay over limestone bedrock. Our selection of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay is derived from massal selection, ensuring the preservation of heritage and quality. The vines, which are now 30 years old, thrive on the lower slopes of the estate, which face a favorable south to southeast orientation.
In line with biodynamic principles, we recognize that the vineyard exists as part of a larger, interconnected ecosystem. The winemaker must navigate the delicate balance between the vine’s structure and the surrounding environment. Our biodynamic approach emphasizes the balance between the soil and the air, with a focus on vertical harmony. This process is slow, requiring patience, observation, trial and error, and above all, a deep enjoyment of the craft.
Sustainable Vineyard Practices
Our commitment to sustainability is evident in the vineyard's practices, where we focus on encouraging biodiversity and minimizing our ecological impact. We alternate grass cover on every other row to foster plant diversity, and we use light machinery to prevent soil compaction. Additionally, we cultivate the surface of the soil to manage grass growth and promote aeration.
We produce our own biodynamic compost, which we carefully spread throughout the vineyard. Our biodynamic practices extend to the use of compost tea and horn manure to nourish microbial life, essential for the health of the vines. We also apply horn silica, herbal teas, and plant decoctions to support the vine’s balance and enhance its natural defense systems.
To further respect the vine’s natural processes, we braid the upper shoots of the vines, preventing the tipping of their apex and reducing stress that might hinder their defenses. We also prioritize pruning and de-budding to regulate yields, ensuring that the vines remain healthy and productive. Finally, great attention is given to the harvest, with only the ripest grapes being selected and sorted at picking time.
Cellar Practices: Preserving the Essence of the Grape
In the cellar, we aim to preserve the true expression of our terroirs. To achieve this, we produce a single cuvée each year, separating each parcel to reflect its unique characteristics. For us, wine is the purest expression of the grape, and we strive to guide it gently without altering its innate qualities.
Our winemaking process is rooted in gravity, which we use to transfer the wines without mechanical intervention. Since the 2013 vintage, we have adopted sulfite-free vinification, relying on indigenous yeasts for fermentation. We do not fine or filter the wine, and we avoid the addition of liqueur d'expédition. Instead, we rely on natural cold stabilization and allow for a natural malolactic fermentation.
After fermenting, the wines are aged for nine months on their lees in barrels and demi-muids. This period of aging helps the wine develop its complexity and depth. Finally, the wine undergoes bottle aging for a minimum of 18 to 22 months, allowing it to fully mature and express its character before being released.
A Commitment to Quality and Sustainability
At every stage, from vineyard to cellar, we remain committed to producing wines that reflect the land, the vines, and our careful stewardship. By respecting both the earth and the vine, we craft wines that are not only a true expression of our terroir but also a testament to the dedication and passion that drives our biodynamic and organic practices.