Château Gaillard - Emmanuel Bienvenu

I opted for a biodynamic agricultural system with a genuine human connection, going against all forms of so-called bio-industrial production.

Since balance is found in nature, it was important to take care of it in my daily life, and it is in this context that I describe myself as a gardener of nature, conscious of preserving our natural resources.

I cultivate vines organically on 3 hectares, certified by ECOERT. This means maintaining a connection with nature to achieve self-sufficiency. It involves working the soil while considering both terrestrial and extraterrestrial elements for the common good of all living things. I therefore practice biodynamic farming, although I am not certified. The cultivation of aromatic and medicinal plants, as well as beekeeping, are also integrated into the farm's ecosystem. The winemaking techniques are traditional, such as using terracotta amphorae for vinification, with maceration periods that can last up to 8 months. The wines are natural, with no additives, and mostly without added sulfites, except when absolutely necessary.

I chose to revisit old grape varieties native to the Loudun region, such as Plantet Noir, Villard Noir, and Oberlin (direct producer hybrids), but also to cultivate new, disease-resistant varieties like Muscaris and Souvignier Gris. These varieties are less susceptible to disease and better suited to the climate challenges of tomorrow. Chenin Blanc and Pinot Noir have also been replanted to showcase the clay-limestone soils of the Loudun area.