Domaine Henry Marionnet: A Champion of Heritage Vines in the Loire Valley
Founded in 1850, Domaine de la Charmoise has been owned and operated by the Marionnet family for over a century. Located in the Touraine region of the Loire Valley, the estate is currently run by Henry Marionnet and his son Jean-Sébastien Marionnet, who have earned widespread acclaim for their commitment to reviving and preserving ungrafted vines, especially heritage varietals such as Romorantin.
The estate spans 60 hectares, with vines planted in limestone and sandy soils that are typical of the Loire’s continental climate. What sets Domaine Henry Marionnet apart is its focus on pre-phylloxera vines—vines that have survived the devastating Phylloxera outbreak that decimated European vineyards in the 19th century. Among these is a special plot of Romorantin, planted over 180 years ago, which is believed to be the oldest vineyard of its kind in France. This historical treasure is used to produce the Cuvée Provignage, a wine that carries the legacy of these ancient vines.
Organic and Minimal Intervention Winemaking
Domaine Henry Marionnet adheres to organic farming practices without seeking official certification. The use of chemicals is avoided entirely, and only indigenous yeasts are used during fermentation. The winemaking approach is minimalist, with no oak aging and limited use of sulfites, allowing the purity of the fruit and the character of the terroir to be fully expressed. The wines are known for their vibrancy, freshness, and elegance, qualities that have made them sought-after both in France and internationally.
Notable Wines
- Romorantin Le Provignage: Made from the 180-year-old Romorantin vines, this wine offers an intense and unique expression of this ancient varietal.
- Touraine Gamay Première Vendange: A no-sulfur red wine crafted from Gamay grapes, known for its lively fruit and pure expression.
- Sauvignon Blanc Vinifera: An ungrafted Sauvignon Blanc that showcases the minerality and crisp acidity typical of the Loire.
With a strong focus on sustainable viticulture and the preservation of rare varietals, Domaine Henry Marionnet remains one of the Loire Valley’s most innovative and historically significant producers.
Château de Chambord: revival of the historical vineyards
Château de Chambord, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most famous castles in France, is not just known for its stunning Renaissance architecture but also has a rich history tied to viticulture. There were vineyards in the vicinity of the château dating back to the Renaissance period, when François I ruled France. However, over time, the vineyards had been abandoned, and the tradition of winemaking at the château was lost for centuries. The goal of this project, initiated in recent years, was to restore these vineyards to their former glory, honoring the château’s deep-rooted connection with wine culture.
The Marionnets were selected to lead the revival of these historic vineyards. Marionnet is known for their expertise in ancient grape varieties and traditional, natural winemaking techniques, which made him an ideal candidate for this project.
The vineyard at Château de Chambord was replanted in 2015 under Marionnet’s guidance, using pre-phylloxera grape varieties. These varieties are rare and date back to the time when the château’s original vineyards were thriving. Specifically, the vineyard features indigenous grape varieties that have been cultivated without the use of pesticides or chemical treatments, adhering to organic and sustainable practices.
Henry Marionnet’s involvement in the Château de Chambord vineyard revival is a testament to his dedication to preserving ancient grape varieties and traditional winemaking methods. By restoring the vineyard at one of France’s most iconic castles, Marionnet has not only revived a piece of history but also contributed to the cultural and viticultural heritage of the Loire Valley. The wines from this vineyard are a blend of history, craftsmanship, and the unique terroir of the Chambord estate.
