Vines and People.
In 1983, Philippe Pichard took over his grandparents' estate in Cravant-les-Côteaux and founded Domaine de la Chapelle. His project, both humble and immense, was to cultivate grapes in the most respectful way possible, in order to pass on a healthy vineyard to future generations. Forty years on, we continue this work, exploring every day and constantly questioning what yesterday seemed taken for granted. Each vintage adds a new stone to the edifice and enriches our knowledge of the terroir.
The Estate
Located in the hamlet of Le Puy, on the banks of the Vienne River in the town of Cravant-les-Côteaux, the Domaine de la Chapelle cultivates 16.5 hectares of Cabernet Franc and 1.5 hectares of Chenin Blanc within the Chinon appellation. For nearly half a century, the hard work of our predecessors has shaped a vineyard in harmony with the environment. Our fundamental commitment is clear: to preserve this legacy by preventing soil depletion, maintaining soil vitality to allow the vines to thrive, and harvesting pure fruit. Without dogmatism, this has naturally led us to adopt organic and biodynamic farming practices.
Know-how
Making great wine without great grapes is an impossible art. It all begins in the vineyard, with observation to guide the tasks to be carried out. Intervening wisely, preserving substrates and life. It's a long-term process. Then, in the cellar, we must accompany the grapes, revealing their brilliance by guiding fermentation and ageing through measured, precise interventions. We observe carefully, we taste often, we watch over the wine. The aim is always to express the potential of each plot, making the most of the range of technical options available.
It's an art of mastery.
Be fair without being assertive, to allow emotion to emerge.
Team
A collective human adventure with many voices, the Domaine de la Chapelle is built and brought to life by dedicated individuals. Each has their own role, yet all are united and willing to help. The sole guiding principle is the satisfaction derived from work carried out with high standards and respect for the craft and for one another. Since becoming the estate’s owner, Laurent Dumas has worked to preserve and strengthen this collaborative spirit. In 2025, Romain Guiberteau started supporting and advising the team.
