Béatrice & Pascal Lambert: Crafting Biodynamic Wines in Chinon
Domaine Pascal Lambert, located in Cravant-les-Coteaux, Chinon, is a leading producer of biodynamic wines in the Loire Valley. Founded in 1987 by Béatrice and Pascal Lambert, the estate has grown to include 13 hectares of vineyards planted primarily with Cabernet Franc and a small amount of Chenin Blanc. The Lamberts have been pioneers in the Chinon region, converting to organic farming over 20 years ago and embracing biodynamic practices since 2005, with official certification achieved in 2012.
Terroir and Vineyards
The estate’s vineyards are planted on a diverse range of soils, including sandy-gravel, limestone-clay, and flint-based clay. These soils, combined with Chinon’s temperate climate, create ideal conditions for producing expressive, terroir-driven wines. The limestone and clay give structure and minerality to the wines, while the sandier soils contribute to their freshness and approachability.
Pascal Lambert’s use of biodynamic farming emphasizes the natural cycles of the moon, and the estate is known for using horses to plow between vines and promoting biodiversity with cover crops. This holistic approach enhances soil health and contributes to the purity of the wines.
Winemaking and Philosophy
Pascal Lambert’s wines are made with minimal intervention, allowing the terroir to shine through. The grapes are harvested by hand, and fermentation is done with indigenous yeasts. For aging, the wines are placed in a mix of concrete tanks and large wooden barrels, depending on the specific cuvée, ensuring that the natural fruit flavors are preserved. No sulfur is added during vinification, and the wines are lightly filtered at bottling.
Signature Wines
- Les Terrasses: A classic Cabernet Franc from limestone-clay soils, offering ripe red fruit flavors, herbaceous notes, and elegant tannins.
- Les Perruches: Grown on flinty clay soils, this wine showcases more mineral-driven, structured expressions of Cabernet Franc.
- Cuvée Mathilde Rosé: A fresh, bright rosé made from Cabernet Franc, perfect for summer drinking.
Domaine Pascal Lambert’s commitment to sustainability, combined with their careful attention to the land, has earned them a reputation as one of Chinon’s top producers. Their wines are vibrant, expressive, and reflective of the unique terroirs of the Loire Valley.
