Mélanie Dedron & Igor Denat: Domaine du Bois Rond

Mélanie Dedron and Igor Denat are the dedicated winemaking couple behind Domaine du Bois Rond, a 4.5-hectare natural wine estate located in the Pays de la Loire region, specifically in Maumusson (Vallons-de-l'Erdre), north of Ancenis. The domaine, established with their first acquired vine plot in late 2010, is named after this original location.

🌿 Philosophy and Viticulture

Mélanie and Igor's philosophy centers on producing "vins naturels" (natural wines) that are 100% fermented grape juice, untouched by modern winemaking alterations.

• Organic and Biodynamic: All of their vines are cultivated in Organic Agriculture (certified by Ecocert, with official certification achieved in 2020) and are managed with a strong biodynamic inspiration.

• Minimal Intervention: They minimize the use of copper and sulfur in the vineyard (around 1.5 kg of copper maximum per hectare per year). They avoid synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, and herbicides.

• Low Yields: They focus on quality over quantity, with yields around 15 hl/ha.

• Manual Work: All harvests are manual, with careful sorting of grapes directly in the vineyard, and the grapes are collected in small 20 kg boxes to preserve their integrity.

🍷 Winemaking Style

The wines produced at Domaine du Bois Rond are known for being "vins vivants" (living wines):

• 100% Natural: The wines are made without chaptalization, acidification, fining, or any other oenological practices designed to modify their natural character.

• No Added Sulfur: Critically, all their cuvées are made with zero added sulfur.

• Gravity Bottling: Bottling is done by gravity, often following the lunar cycle (descending moon, and whenever possible, a "fruit day").

• Varietals: The domaine works with a wide range of grape varieties, many of them traditional to the Loire Valley, including Chenin, Grolleau Noir, Pineau d'Aunis, Côt (Malbec), Gamay, Melon de Bourgogne, and even a small amount of Syrah.

Mélanie Dedron is also involved in Ceramics (Mélanie Dedron Ceramics), showcasing an artisan's dedication both in the cellar and outside of it. Together, Mélanie and Igor embody the spirit of authentic, hands-on natural winemaking in the Loire.