Château de Coulaine, a pioneer in organic wines in Chinon

Two-thirds of the Château de Coulaine’s terroir consists of clay-limestone slopes. The remainder comprises clay-siliceous plateaus, all of which are influenced by the ocean, lending the wine finesse and elegance.

Having worked in organic farming for many years, the estate was certified in 1997. However, the process had begun long before that, following the estate’s reorganisation in 1989. The desire to work the soil mechanically, without using herbicides, had already taken root. 

The transition to organic farming also means no longer using the majority of synthetic chemicals for plant protection treatments. As organic viticulture is constantly evolving, consideration is being given to reducing tillage between the rows. This involves, in particular, preserving the natural ground cover or sowing mixtures of plants that provide nutrients for the vines. It also involves the use of mating disruption to combat the proliferation of grape-damaging moths. Winemaking is approached in a natural and non-interventionist manner.

The Wines of Chinon

The Chinon appellation in figures

• AOP established by the original decree of 31 July 1937, amended on 17 August 2016; 350 hectares
• 26 local authorities
• 89,000 hectolitres
• 12,000,000 bottles

The grape varieties of the Chinon appellation

• Red and Rosé wines: Cabernet Franc + up to 10% Cabernet Sauvignon
• White wines: 100% Chenin

The three main wine-growing regions of Chinon

• The alluvial terraces along the banks of the Vienne, composed of gravel and sand
• The Turonian limestone hills and knolls composed of yellow tuffeau
• The plateau, consisting mainly of flint-rich clay and sand

A few photos of Château de Coulaine in Chinon