Château Arcole, a Saint-Émilion Grand Cru produced using biodynamic methods

Château d’Arcole’s vineyards stretch across the heart of the prestigious Saint-Émilion terroir in the commune of Saint-Sulpice-de-Faleyrens. The estate comprises a single 5-hectare plot surrounding the property.

Grown using organic farming methods since the 1960s, and later using biodynamic methods, it is the oldest vineyard in Saint-Emilion to have adopted an environmentally conscious approach. At its helm is Véronique Barthe.

Organic & Biodynamic Farming at Château d’Arcole

Château d’Arcole has always been farmed organically, and has now decided to formalise this approach through official organic certification. No weedkillers or pesticides are used. The soil is worked entirely through light ploughing to control grass growth. Only natural products are used to protect the vineyard. These viticultural techniques help to limit yields. They also allow the bunches to be aerated, thereby boosting the vines’ natural defences against disease. The winemaking and ageing cellar is located in the renovated old farmhouse dating from the last century. Vinification takes place in small rotating stainless steel vats. Colour and tannins are extracted gently and slowly. At the end of fermentation, the wines are transferred by gravity directly into barrels. No pumps are used during vinification in order to achieve greater finesse. Barrel ageing lasts between 14 and 18 months depending on the vintage. Bottling takes place the following spring without filtration.

An eco-friendly approach

Symbolised by the image of the bee, environmental protection and sustainable development are central to every stage of Château d’Arcole’s production process. The bottle has been made 10% lighter to reduce its carbon footprint. The 100% recyclable aluminium cap is coloured with natural ink. The recycled paper label is printed using intaglio printing. This is a high-quality process dating back to the 15th century, which allows the use of water-based inks. The box has won an innovation award. The quality of its paper and its glue-free construction make it 100% recyclable.

A few photos of the Château d’Arcole in Saint-Emilion

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