Julien Pineau took over the reins at the historic Clos Roche Blanche vineyard from Didier and Catherine Barouillet in 2015, It was one of the most important estates in the Loire Valley in France and an inspiration to young vignerons who followed their conversion to organic and biodynamic farming and more natural methods of winemaking. Julien immediately started to work the vineyards with his own philosophy without (of course) using any chemicals and starting planting local grape variety of Menu Pineau and fruit trees. “Our goal is to have more than just vines in the Clos: different fruit trees and vegetable patches, but also livestock to diversify this already incredible eco-system even more.” (even harvest transport through the vines by horse, to avoid compacting the soil).

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His winemaking is what he would describe as “laissez-faire”, in terms of he is very hands-off in the cellar. But in reality he is very hard working in the vineyard and in the cellar he then tries to keep it as simple as possible to let the grapes express themselves. 

Julien’s wines are pure of fruit, honest and speak of the vintage. they really speak of the good farming that has taken place on this beautiful piece of land, which has been farmed organic for over thirty years.