Les Champs Jumeaux is a small, natural wine estate located in Courdemanges, in the Loire Valley’s Touraine appellation, France. Operated by Jean-Philippe and Agnès L’Hotelier, the domaine spans just 1 hectare of vines on clay, limestone, and schist soils. The couple, driven by a passion for sustainable viticulture, crafts low-intervention wines that emphasize the purity of their terroir. Their focus is on Chenin Blanc and Gamay, producing vibrant, expressive wines through biodynamic practices. Les Champs Jumeaux, translating to “The Twin Fields,” reflects the intimate scale and harmonious approach of their winemaking.

Winemaking Philosophy

• Biodynamic Viticulture: The L’Hoteliers practice biodynamic farming, certified by Demeter, with no synthetic pesticides, insecticides, or weedkillers. Vines, averaging 29 years old, are hand-harvested to ensure quality and maintain social ties during harvest. The vineyard’s clay, limestone, and schist soils contribute to the wines’ mineral-driven profiles.

• Natural Winemaking: In the cellar, minimal intervention is key. Wines undergo spontaneous fermentation with indigenous yeasts in neutral oak barrels, direct pressing for whites, and aging sur lie (on lees) for 5 months. No fining, no filtration, and no added sulfites are used, resulting in pure, lively wines.

• Grape Varieties and Cuvées:

  • Chenin Blanc: Produces a white wine with crisp acidity, notes of apple, citrus, and minerality, ideal for pairing with seafood or soft cheeses.

  • Gamay: Yields a red wine with bright red fruit (cherry, raspberry), light tannins, and a fresh, saline finish, perfect for charcuterie or poultry.

• Terroir: The Loire Valley’s cool climate and diverse soils enhance the wines’ freshness and complexity, making Les Champs Jumeaux a standout in Touraine’s natural wine scene.

Background

• Founders: Jean-Philippe and Agnès L’Hotelier established Les Champs Jumeaux to pursue a vision of authentic, environmentally conscious winemaking. Their small vineyard allows for meticulous care, with every step from vine to bottle reflecting their commitment to nature.

• Vision: The couple aims to create wines that are “alive” and expressive, celebrating the Loire’s terroir while promoting sustainable practices. Their biodynamic approach aligns with a broader movement toward transparency and eco-friendly viticulture.

• Scale: With only 1 hectare, production is limited, making their wines highly sought after by natural wine enthusiasts.