Château du Bloy

Organic Winemaking at Château du Bloy

Château du Bloy has been dedicated to traditional winemaking since the 1960s, maintaining a commitment to quality and sustainability. Nestled between the picturesque towns of Bergerac and Saint-Emilion, the estate has been under the stewardship of Olivier Lambert and Bertrand Lepoittevin-Dubost since 2001. Their goal is to elevate the winery's reputation in Southwestern France. Château du Bloy emphasizes organic farming practices that honor the environment, producing wines from the Montravel and Bergerac appellations.

Grape Varieties and Terroir Characteristics

The estate spans 16.5 hectares, with vineyards planted on slopes that benefit from varied exposures. Red grape varieties, primarily Merlot and Cabernet Franc, occupy 12.1 hectares, while 4.4 hectares are dedicated to white varieties, including Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon, and Muscadelle. The average age of the vines is 30 years, with a planting density of 3,300 to 5,000 vines per hectare. The vineyard yields approximately 30 hectoliters per hectare, and the soil composition includes clay and a thin layer of silt.

The Winemaking Process

At Château du Bloy, harvesting occurs plot by plot, allowing for meticulous care of each grape variety. Red wine fermentation lasts between 3 to 6 weeks, involving pre-fermentation maceration, pumping over, and regular racking. The Montravel “Le Bloy” red wine is aged in barrels for 16 months, while the “Sirius” Cuvée matures for 12 months. Red Bergerac is traditionally aged in cement tanks for 9 to 12 months. For white wines, the process includes skin maceration, pneumatic pressing, and light settling, followed by a cold pre-fermentation phase. The winery ages its white wines in cement vats on fine lees or in barrels for the dry Montravel “Le Bloy.” Additionally, Château du Bloy produces a sweet wine under the “Côtes de Montravel” appellation.

Plan a Visit to Château du Bloy

Experience the charm of Château du Bloy’s tasting room and sample their diverse range of wines. A visit to the estate offers a chance to appreciate the beautiful vineyards and cellars. Be sure to contact the winery ahead of your visit for the best experience.