March 11, 2024 - 1 comments
Domaine Lachat, nestled in the village of Régnié, a Beaujolais cru, belongs to the passionate natural winemakers Anne and Thijs. Hailing from Holland, this dynamic duo owns and manages a 3-hectare farm dedicated to organic vine cultivation and regenerative agricultural principles.
Their commitment to sustainable winemaking is palpable through continuous efforts to enhance farming practices and restore equilibrium to the granite soils. Techniques like sowing permanent cover crops, allowing sheep and chickens to graze and fertilize, and implementing agroforestry with diverse fruit trees contribute to the biodiversity and vitality of their property.
Situated 350-400 meters above sea level in the Beaujolais Cru, Régnié, their vineyard parcels boast old vines and granite soils, resulting in wines that uniquely express the terroir.
Their decision to work organically was fueled by the sight of their children playing amidst the vines, prompting a desire to shield them from pesticides. Inspired by local natural winemakers, they undertook a winemaking study in Beaune, leading to their inaugural harvest in 2020. The success of that first vintage fueled their enthusiasm, enabling them to expand to 2 more hectares in 2021.
For Anne and Thijs, working with natural wine is a logical extension of their commitment to organic farming. Embracing the philosophy that healthy, organic grapes require minimal intervention during fermentation, they craft wines that capture the vibrancy of the terroir. Their goal is simple: to create wines that bring people together, celebrating life with high-quality, fresh ingredients, and a touch of love and attention, akin to a well-prepared meal.
