The history of the estate
Nearly 900 years of existence
Traces of viticulture date back to 1130. At that time, monks cultivated vines around their monastery. From then on, the vineyard was planted with Chenin Blanc and produced sweet white wines. Over the centuries, the estate's reputation grew considerably. Louis XIV particularly appreciated the estate's wines, which he called "goutte d'or" (drop of gold). He even tried to visit it before getting his carriage stuck in the mud near the building. The monks left the estate in the 17th century, and it was subsequently owned by the Costreau family, then...JolyToday, Nicolas Joly and his daughter Virginie are at the helm of this beautiful estate. Convinced by thebiodynamicsThe winemakers completely transformed the estate's winemaking process. The estate has earned its stripes, its reputation is well established. Curnonsky, the renowned food critic, ranked its wines among the top 5 white wines in France.
Biodynamics at the center
Nicolas Joly: a pioneer of this type of agriculture
Nicolas Jolydid everything possible to convert the estate to agriculturebiodynamicsHe obtained certification in 1981. For him, wine becomes unique and remarkable when it reflects its terroir and microclimate. If no synthetic chemicals are added to the vines, they can fully express the best of their terroir. Thus, cellar work is reduced to a minimum, and the wine gains in aging potential, expression, and naturalness. Following this philosophy, the winemaker has eliminated settling, yeast inoculation, fining, and temperature control. The quality of the vintage is determined in the vineyard, not the cellar. The estate has gradually become a leading force in thebiodynamicsAlongside the development of this philosophy in his vineyard,Nicolas JolyHe theorized the principles of biodynamic agriculture in several books. These works aim to explain and raise awareness of the issues and principles of this agricultural method.
The vineyard and wines of the estate
Exceptional wines
The estate is planted with Chenin Blanc vines ranging from 35 to 80 years old. The vineyard is situated on very steep slopes, in deep soil, with a south/southeast exposure. The harvest is done by hand and on horseback. All these elements contribute to the quality of the estate's wines.
- The Serrant Flow
- The old Clos
- the Clos de la Bergerie
Surprising, aromatic, and of exceptional quality, each vintage has its own distinct personality. A tasting of the estate's winesThe Serrant FlowA mark that will not be forgotten!
