Philosophy
We cultivate our vines to produce the finest grapes, always with the utmost respect for nature. Organic farming has been officially practiced since 2010.
As a natural progression of our approach and philosophy, we have gradually embraced biodynamics since 2015.
For the rest,
we let nature take its course.
Commintent
Domaine d’Orfeuilles uses natural methods from vineyard to cellar, practices organic farming, and is proud to now be a member of the DEMETER winegrowers. The estate was certified by ECOCERT for organic farming in 2010 and by DEMETER for biodynamic practices with the 2020 harvest.
Through our organic vineyard management, we are dedicated to preserving the terroir. Our practices maintain healthy, living soils so that future generations can continue our passion for traditional winemaking.
We prepare for a new cycle right after the harvest. At this stage, the focus is on preparing the soil and vines for the winter months. The soil is gently and quickly worked to limit weeds and loosen the earth.
Next, before the leaves fall, we apply a biodynamic preparation known as 500 (Horn Manure) as soon as possible. It is dynamized for 60 minutes with warm rainwater. Horn manure is made from fresh cow manure buried in a cow horn during the winter months. This preparation enhances soil life and strengthens the connection between the soil and the vines.
This process helps soil organisms transform incorporated compost, vine leaves, and pruned branches into nutrients over the winter, rejuvenating and maintaining the soil’s natural balance.
At this stage, just before the full moon of Easter, we spray a horsetail (aquisetum arvense) decoction to limit the development of diseases like mildew. This plant, rich in silica, has the unique ability to inhibit the growth of spores from pathogenic fungi.
As temperatures rise and the soil warms up, it’s time to apply a second biodynamic preparation, 500. It is sprayed as a liquid, carefully dynamized, to bring healing, vitality, and sensitivity to the vines. This is also the peak period for working the soil, managing weeds, and mowing the grass growing between the vines.
In the near future, we are considering introducing flocks of Ouessant dwarf sheep from Brittany to help with grass management naturally.
When the vines begin to bud and grow, we add one to three applications of the biodynamic preparation 501, dynamized for 60 minutes. This horn silica strengthens the plant’s immunity, enhances photosynthesis, improves ripening, and is made from ground quartz crystals buried in a cow horn during the summer months.
Together, the biodynamic sprays and compost preparations establish a dynamic connection between the plants and the soil, water, air, heat, and cosmos. They help the vines grow in a healthy and balanced way, access the full spectrum of nutrients they need, and become more resistant to pests, diseases, and extreme weather conditions.
At this stage, the vines require the most care and attention.
We closely monitor the weather conditions, rainfall levels, and reinforce vine protection if necessary with sulfur and small amounts of copper.
Herbal teas made from horsetail, nettle, and willow help prevent fungal diseases and balance the water element within the plants and soil. We also use other plants such as valerian, fern, oak bark, chamomile, yarrow, and various preparations with essential oils like eucalyptus and sweet orange.
Thanks to organic practices, the soil is much softer and retains more moisture, allowing the root system to grow deeper and more robust. The vigor of the vines becomes more balanced, making them less sensitive to extreme weather conditions. The entire vineyard hums with life, and year after year, the domain seems to grow healthier and more vibrant.
A final 501 preparation can be applied to enhance ripening and ensure even maturity.