Biodynamics and Biodiversity

From the very start, Olivier Pithon had no hesitation whatsoever in choosing between images of living creatures and skulls on the bottles. His organic farming practices were supplemented in the early 2010s by a rigorous biodynamic approach.

The Plant: application of horn silica (501) in autumn and spring. In autumn to stimulate sap flow back into the roots and thus the build-up of reserves. And in spring to boost photosynthesis and enhance the quality of light for the plants.

The Soil: Apply Maria Thun manure compost to stimulate soil life and introduce compost in homeopathic doses. In spring, give the soil a boost with horn manure (500) to help it come to life.

Green Manure: Reintroducing ground cover in the vineyards. A mixture of cereals and legumes is sown in early autumn to provide ground cover throughout the winter. This is ploughed into the soil in spring to add organic matter, thereby boosting soil life.

Olivier Pithon in the guide to France’s finest wines

In less than 10 years, this winemaker from Anjou – brother of the renowned Jo Pithon of Coteaux du Layon – has established himself as one of Roussillon’s leading estates. Olivier Pithon practises committed viticulture, showing great respect for the terroirs and indigenous grape varieties. He has now established a very personal style, producing authentic, straightforward wines that improve year on year and are now proving more precise and consistent in the entry-level wines. […] The consistency, frank expression and intensity of flavour in the wines emerging from the new cellar, high above Calce, have earned the estate a second star in short order, a distinction brilliantly confirmed again this year. […] Available in all three colours, Mon P’tit Pithon is as accessible on the palate as it is on the wallet – we’re sold! 

(source: La Revue du Vin de France)

A few photos of the Olivier Pithon estate