During Winter, the vines rest….but the work continues.

Fall is gone, The harvest seems to be far away. Winter is there! at least we hope…

Climate is changing, that’s a fact. For us vinegrowers who work constantly with nature, we notice it year after year. These last two years, winters were almost inexistent. Few morning frost are not enough for the vines to stop their cycle completely. It seems that this winter is a bit different. For some experts, the next couple of months should be cold. That is what we hope for.

We begun to prune the vines. For the first time, we tried an old plowing technique called “le buttage”.  Commonly used in Burgundy, this technique is not done in Champagne. It protects the plants against deep frost during winter especially the Young plants. It is equally used to kill the weeds. However, we have to be carefull. Plowing is not good for the life of all the micro-organisms that live in the soil, especially those who create the mycorhizes with the roots. A little… but not to much! Always the respect for balance.

At Louise Brison, no herbicide ! That’s why we have to be able to use old and new techniques. We will see the efficiency at the beginning of next spring.

Meanwhile, Merry Christmas in front of the fireplace! See you next year for new adventures at Champagne Louise Brison!