THE WINE TOUR IS LIVE

In this video, Jan Thienpont, a seasoned winemaker, describes the intricate process of winemaking, emphasizing the importance of terroir, vine selection, harvest timing, fermentation, blending, maturation, and bottling. From the significance of soil, climate, and human touch to the art of blending and aging, every step contributes to creating a unique and flavorful wine. The journey from vine to bottle is a meticulous process that culminates in the final product ready for consumption or aging.

At Domaine des 3 Cellier in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Ludovic Cellier, along with his wife and brothers, showcases an approach to winemaking rooted in respect, meditation, and adaptation to nature. Drawing parallels between martial arts and winemaking, Ludovic emphasizes the importance of being in tune with the vineyard, focusing on optimum grape maturity, and respecting the diversity of soils and grape varieties in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. By working with nature as an ally and adhering to principles rather than rigid techniques, Domaine des 3 Cellier produces wines that reflect the unique terroir and deliver a genuine ecological experience.

At Domaine Fond Croze in Southern Rhone, Guillaume Long, the fourth-generation winemaker, shares the estate's rich history and commitment to innovation and sustainability. With a vast expanse of 120 to 130 plots spread across 50 kilometers, the domain requires meticulous management and dedication. Guillaume's family legacy of challenging goals and continuous growth drives the estate to expand its vineyards, develop new wines, and experiment with diverse grape varieties and winemaking techniques to create unique and exciting offerings that reflect the terroir.

In this exploration of Domaine Clos de Caveau in Vacqueyras, southern Rhone, Henri Bungener shares the story of the estate's organic journey intertwined with personal health revelations. The region's organic farming success is attributed to the Mistral wind, providing a natural shield against diseases. Through a transition to organic practices and a deep respect for nature, Clos de Caveau emphasizes the importance of cultivating a healthy ecosystem to produce exceptional wines that truly reflect the unique terroir.

At Domaine les 4 Vents in Crozes-Hermitages, Lucie and Nancy Fourel, sisters in charge of the estate, showcase a deep connection to their vineyard and a passion for viticulture and organic farming. Lucie explains the intricacies of working with Marsanne and Syrah vines of varying ages, highlighting the importance of treating each plot and grape variety uniquely to capture the essence of the terroir. By vinifying the grapes separately based on age and characteristics, the sisters craft wines that reflect the energy and intensity of youth as well as the depth and austerity of older vines, showcasing a profound understanding of the vineyard's nuances and translating them into beautiful, expressive wines.

At Chateau Aspras in Provence, Michaël Latz, the mayor of Correns and a champion of organic farming, shares his journey from the pharmaceutical industry to advocating for sustainable agriculture. By spearheading the transition to organic farming in his village, Correns became the first Organic village in France. Michaël emphasizes the importance of trusting soil life to nourish vines, promoting biodiversity, and creating a balanced ecosystem. The estate's commitment to organic practices, ethical farming, and innovative winemaking techniques results in outstanding wine quality, reflecting a deep respect for the land and a dedication to a greener future.

In this tour of Chateau Soutard and Chateau Larmande in France with Veronique Corporandy, the focus is on the essence of true terroir wines. The vineyards, each with distinctive terroirs, showcase how soil, climate, and craftsmanship converge to create wines that reflect their unique origins. Technology complements traditional winemaking practices to bring out the best of the terroir, resulting in wines with specific characteristics that embody the essence of their respective landscapes.

At Château Ségur de Cabanac and Moulin de la Rose, located in the prestigious terroirs of Bordeaux, Jean-François Delon and his family manage two small but exceptional Châteaux with a focus on skills and values transmission. Jean-François emphasizes the importance of daily involvement in the vineyards, precise interventions, and mutual support among small vine growers. The estates in Saint-Estèphe and Saint-Julien showcase different terroirs but share a focus on Cabernet Sauvignon vines planted densely for quality grape production. Jean-François's dedication to traditional winemaking methods, precision in handling press wines, and commitment to passing on generational knowledge underscores the essence of craftsmanship and continuity in winemaking.

At Mons La Graveyre in the right bank of Bordeaux, Aurélie Carreau, a respected winemaker, has transformed a small vineyard into a biodynamic haven in the Côtes-de-Bordeaux region. Implementing biodynamic principles such as vortex creation, cow-horn manure, and agroforestry, she nurtures a holistic ecosystem where vines interact with their surroundings in harmony. Aurélie's innovative approach to winemaking involves using various vessels for fermentation and maturation, including amphoras and concrete tanks, to craft wines that reflect the essence of the terroir and the biodynamic practices applied. Her commitment to sustainability, climate resilience, and the art of biodynamic winemaking shapes the unique character and emotions evoked by the wines produced at Mons La Graveyre.