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
Situé au lieu-dit Le Puy, en bordure de Vienne sur la commune de Cravant-les-Côteaux, le domaine cultive 15,5 hectares de cabernet franc et 1,5 hectares de chenin blanc en appellation Chinon. Depuis presque un demi-siècle, le labeur exigeant de nos prédécesseurs a façonné un vignoble en harmonie avec l’environnement. Notre engagement fondamental est limpide : préserver cet héritage en évitant l’épuisement des sols, en y maintenant la vie pour permettre l’épanouissement des vignes et récolter un fruit pur. Sans dogmatisme, cela nous a naturellement conduit à adopter les pratiques de l’agriculture biologique et de la biodynamie.
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 multi-voiced human adventure, Domaine de la Chapelle is built and lives by committed personalities. Each working on his own project, yet all united and available. The only guide is the satisfaction of a job well done, with respect for the material and for others. Laurent Dumas, who now owns the estate, is committed to maintaining and strengthening this collaborative spirit.
