Coteau Libre

Since 2020, we, Paul Aublet-Cuvelier and Mathieu Fleuriet, have replanted 5.5 hectares of vines in the heart of a unique area of the upper Allier Valley called La Ribeyre. La Ribeyre is an old Auvergne vineyard that gradually fell into oblivion during the 20th century. We are trying to restore the vineyards to their former glory on our leptynic granite terraces.

On our hillside perched at 650m altitude, the Syrah, Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Gamay, Chenin Blanc, and Roussanne grape varieties are overwhelmingly massal selections. We practice certified organic viticulture based on physiological pruning, respect for soil life, and maximum biodiversity.

In the cellar, fermentation occurs with indigenous yeasts, with no filtration, no fining, no additives—just grapes. The only input might be a small amount of sulfur in case of a problem (e.g., lactic spoilage during racking, aging mice, etc.). The doses remain infinitesimal, and intervention occurs as early as possible in the wine's life. The vast majority of our wines are sulfite-free. The wines are aged in large, old oak barrels (400L to 600L) for 8 to 24 months.

While we await the full production of our young vines, we also offer a négociant wine called Ribeyrou. The grapes are sourced in Auvergne, when the vintage allows, from certified organic producers. The winemaking methods are the same as for our estate wines.

Information

Domain Name:
Coteau Libre
Winemaker's Name:
Paul Aublet-Cuvelier & Mathieu Fleuriet
Country:
France
Appellations:
Vin de France
Farming:
Organic (Ecocert)
Grape varieties:
Pinot noir, Pinot gris, Chenin, Roussanne, Tressallier, Chardonnay, Chardonnay muscaté, Gamay, Syrah