The best example of the winegrower’s state of mind is fallow land. At the Merlin’s estate, between 5 and 10% of the land is not cultivated. After a vine has been pulled up, the soil is left to rest for 4 to 5 years.
The base of our new plants is made from our best old vines to preserve the genetics of this heritage. For more than 30 years, we have chosen to plough the most accessible plots with a tractor, and with a horse for the less accessible plots like Moulin-à-Vent or plots in Vergisson. Beginning in May, the soil around the vines is diged over by hand to minimise weed competition.
Here, the Chardonnay is arched for a better distribution of the vegetation. Spring pruning is necessary to limit the accumulation of foliage and grapes. The vine is a liana. Its trellising is essential for its cultivation and protects it from fungal diseases.
Harvesting is done by hand, in crates, adapting to the maturity of each plot. In autumn, as soon as the leaves fall, pruning can begin. The choice of wood is decisive for the quality and quantity of the future harvest. Respectful pruning perpetuates the vineyard. To promote microbial life in the soil, we provide organic fertilizer as manure and compost.
