The vine is said to be older than humanity. It is believed to have appeared in Asia Minor, and was then acclimatised in Egypt, and finally in that part of the Roman Empire, then called Gaul, which was later to become France.
Arriving in France via the Midi, the vines found their favourite soil in Bordeaux, Champagne and Burgundy. Grape cultivation and its transformation have become, over the centuries and for generations of winegrowers, an art, whose secrets were only transmitted by word of mouth.
THE VINEYARDS OF BORDEAUX
Characterised by moderate and regular rainfall, with mild temperatures in winter and relatively mild summers, the oceanic climate of Bordeaux lends itself perfectly to the cultivation of vines.
The soil is divided between clay-limestone with neutral or alkaline PH, and rather acid and gravelly soil.
Grape varieties: Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Semillion, Sauvignon and Muscadelle. 80% red, 20% white.
THE CHAMPAGNE VINEYARDS
With an oceanic climate and continental tendency, the Champagne vineyards are situated at the northern limit of the vine culture. The winters are harsh, but the summer sunshine is generous and the rainfall regular.
The soil is mainly calcareous and marly (a combination of clay and limestone).
Grape varieties: Pinot noir, Pinot meunier and Chardonnay. 90% white, 5% red, 5% rosé.
