The philosophy of the Brard Blanchard estate
Specifications to be met
Organic farming is an environmentally friendly form of agriculture. Its core principle is the avoidance of synthetic chemicals, herbicides, and pesticides. We adhere to two sets of specifications: a general one covering all aspects of winegrowing, and a much more specific one applicable to winemaking—all certified by the organization Ecocert.
The philosophy of the Brard Blanchard estate
Le domaine Brard Blanchard
Le domaine Brard Blanchard
Le domaine Brard Blanchard
The philosophy of the Brard Blanchard estate
The vine
We treat the vines, but only with simple products—sulfur and copper (in the form of Bordeaux mixture)—and we use plant-based preparations, such as fermented extracts or infusions, to boost their natural defenses against disease.
We cultivate the soil to prevent the growth of weeds that would otherwise deprive the vines of essential nutrients, particularly during dry spells. This practice also aerates the topsoil and maintains a healthy balance of microorganisms, which play a vital role in vine growth. We apply organic matter, which is essential for young vines. Between August and March, we sow cover crops—such as field beans, rye, and mustard—to provide natural organic matter.
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The philosophy of the Brard Blanchard estate
Hand-harvesting
There are no specifications mandating hand-harvesting for organic wines. We chose this harvesting method because it best aligns with our own approach. Hand-harvesting allows us to sort the grapes right in the vineyard, ensuring that any undesirable rot can be systematically removed by our pickers, who are trained for this type of harvest.
Nous faisons attention aux feuilles et aux détritus qui pourraient tomber dans le seau. Une machine le fait beaucoup moins.
La vendange manuelle est aussi l’aboutissement de notre démarche biologique : Nous respectons la vigne toute l’année. Elle pousse à son rythme, et l’on en prend le plus grand soin. Il faut six mois à une grappe pour se former. Lorsque la vigne nous offre son fruit, si précieux, il serait aberrant de venir avec une machine à vendanger pour la secouer violemment.
C’est une question de logique, après tant d’attention pourquoi la brusquerions nous ? La vendange manuelle est plus douce pour le pied de vigne, elle ne le blesse pas.
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For nearly four generations, the family has been working on the wine estate.
Originally a mixed farm combining viticulture and dairy farming at the turn of the century, the estate shifted exclusively to winegrowing—and marketing its own wines—in 1976…