DOMAINE DE FONDRÈCHE, France
His wines from his 38ha domaine are very polished and seductive, yet he always aims to improve his technique. Sébastien is moving to organic culture and uses specific canopy management in order to produce ripe rich wines, with an overall harmony being the key. This estate follows environmentally conscientious philosophies, with discipline and rigour aimed at a low-interventionist approach. “One of the leading estates in the up-and-coming Ventoux appellation is unquestionably Sebastien Vincenti and Manou Barthelemy’s Domaine de Fondreche.” Jeb Dunnuck, The Wine Advocate December 2016
Viticulture
The estate encompasses 40 hectares of vineyards divided into three main parcels: Fondrèche Plateau: Primarily dedicated to red wine production, this area features ancient alluvial soils with a stony, chalky surface and sandy-clay texture. The combination of air currents and significant temperature variations contributes to the depth and mineral structure of the wines. Sandy and Silty Soils: These plots are utilised for rosé wine production, offering subtlety and freshness. Chalky Soils: Designated for white wines, these soils contribute to wines with finesse and moderate alcohol levels. They take an organic and biodynamic approach working with the land to improve soil structure. All the interventions on the vine follow the moon calendar, in order to reinforce its natural defences.
Winemaking
The winery combines modern technology with traditional techniques to produce wines that reflect their terroir: Vinification is carried out with minimal additives, and some wines are produced without added sulfites. Tools like nitrogen blow-down presses and ovoid tanks are used to preserve the integrity of the grapes and limit input. Wines are aged in containers best suited to their characteristics, such as ovoid tanks for volume and casks for polishing tannins, with a year of rest before blending to ensure balance and harmony
