An organic vineyard in the making
On the northern slopes dominating Marmande, in the Valley of the Garonne, punctuated by Bordeaux, Agen, Toulouse and other rugby temples, the Estate of the Broutet Family lies there, facing South.Marmande was founded around 1195 by Richard Ist of England, the Lionheart.
On a cold morning at the end of September, off we went down to the winery to collect scissors and buckets.
At 7.00am:only 15 deg.C,
but 3 hours later, 35 deg.C.
The micro winery consists in 3 hectares planted in Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Abouriou, a local varietal with an unfortunate reputation: l'Abouriou, le raisin qui rend fou, which means the grape that drives you crazy. Perhaps a reference to the high alchool degree the wines made with Abouriou reach. It is also called 'Early Burgundy' in California.
On this vineyard, seeking the organic Certification that will take 2 more years to obtain, only a small tractor is tolerated to bring the precious grapes to the winery.
The winemaker, a guy like you and me? No, no, no !
The lucky one who will taste the first juice.
Lonely with the oenologist on the blower.
What should I do now?
OK, we need to have a look inside the vat.
Umh, yummy!
Isn't hard to believe that this will be one of
the Star wines of the French Paradox next year?
