Planting, harvesting and winemaking techniques have been modernized, revealing a new facet of the European country
French viticulture, traditionally seen as the cradle of excellence in the world, today undergoes a silent revolution, driven by the need for adaptation to climate change, new consumer demands, and constant search for innovation without giving up tradition. Planting, harvesting and winemaking techniques have been modernized, revealing a new facet of the winemaker.
In the field, more sustainable practices gain strength. Planting now consider solar orientation more rigorously, spacing between vines and soil management, aiming at the conservation of biodiversity and the natural balance of vineyards. Techniques such as “cover crop” (plant coverage planting between vines rows) and the use of organic compounds enrich the soil, improve water retention and reduce the need for chemical interventions. In the harvest, there is a growing tendency to the manual vintage, allowing the most accurate selection of the curls and protecting the integrity of the grapes.
The winemaking is also modernized. Many producers are adopting biodynamic practices based on Rudolf Steiner’s principles. Biodynamic viticulture not only eliminates the use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers, but also synchronizes the work of the vineyard with the lunar and astral cycles. The goal is to strengthen vines and produce wines that better express terroir. Wineries such as Domaine de La Romanée-Cononti, in Burgundy, and Château Palmer, in Margaux, are consecrated examples of this approach.
As for winemaking and ripening equipment, the scenario is equally diversified. The traditional oak barrels are still widely used for the fermentation and aging of the wines, especially in Burgundy and Bordeaux. However, we also observe increasing use of large toneis (Foudres) and stainless steel tanks, which allow greater temperature control and are ideal for preserving the aromatic purity of white and rosé wines. In addition, some producers innovate with the use of clay or cement spoons for wine that require minimal intervention and a more authentic profile.
Regions such as Sud-oroust, Languedoc and Provence stand out in this new viticulture. In the SUD-altest, small producers are rescuing native castes such as Negrette and Tannat, now lighter and more elegantly vinified. In Languedoc, previously known as volume wines, arise biodynamic and organic labels that rival quality with the great classic regions, betting on unusual blends and minimalist techniques. Provence, traditional by the rosé, now also has structured reds and whites, taking advantage of modern cold fermentation techniques and maturity in stainless steel tanks to preserve freshness and acidity.
With regard to the closure of the bottles, the traditional cork cork is still majority, especially for premium wines, reinforcing the image of authenticity and respect for tradition. However, high quality synthetic corks have been gaining space, especially in faster consumer wines, as they offer consistency and lower risk of contamination by TCA (cork taste). The screecaps also begin to popularize, especially in white and rosé wines intended for youth consumption, as they ensure freshness and ease of opening.
Noteworthy is the fact that French viticulture has allied itself to the designer, especially for the creation of its labels. Today we find French wines with creative, modern, inclusive labels (many in Braille) and that more than a “informative” about wine, within the limits of adequate legislation, have become attractive and even collectible.
Looking to the future, the new French viticulture has a promising panorama. Without abandoning their historical principles, producers are more open to innovation, sustainability and search for more authentic, pure and adapted wines to the demands of the new global consumer. If, on the one hand, tradition remains a precious asset, on the other hand, the ability to reinvent itself to guarantee to France the world reference post in the art of making wines – now more alive and dynamic than ever. Health !!!
*This text does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the young Pan.
