March 1st, 2024

Agroforestry at the service of the vineyard

In the heart of the Costières de Nîmes, our vineyards are certified both organic and regenerative agriculture. Our commitment to regenerating the soil, ecosystems, and local communities has led us to embark on a number of ambitious projects. Under the leadership of Isabel, we’ve embarked in agroforestry, marking a significant step towards a form of viticulture that’s both sustainable and eco-friendly.

Diversifying Crops

On a 2.5-hectare experimental vineyard plot, we’ve recently planted 3 types of tree rows :

Fruit tree rows foster biodiversity within our vineyard. Here we’ve planted almonds, cherries, avocados, pistachios, pomegranates, plums, figs, and persimmons.
Rows of tall trees with wide spread draw moisture up to the soil’s surface, provide shade, and help cool and moisten the air during the hot summer months. Here we selected pecan trees for their growth potential.
Tree rows dedicated to producing Ramial Chipped Wood (RCW) contribute to our ability of nourish soils naturally. When these trees are pruned, shredded, and spread among the vines, they help enrich the soil with organic matter. This method allows us to fertilize our soils without relying on external farm inputs. Here we opted for mulberries, hackberries, and maples – local trees that are well adapted to heat and drought.

The 13 varieties of trees we’ve planted were selected after careful consideration of their ecological contributions and adaptability.

Benefits for the vine

Integrating these trees among the vines is intentional. They aid moisture regulation, offer air cooling in the summer, and contribute to soil enrichment, creating a more balanced environment for the vines. This strategy of plant diversification also prolongs the blooming period, attracting a wide variety of pollinators and bolstering the ecosystem’s resilience. This spring we will plant perennial flowers between the rows of fruit trees, introducing yet another layer of biodiversity to our vineyard.

Commitment to the future

This foray into agroforestry reflects our desire to rethink traditional viticultural practices by putting ecology at the forefront of our efforts. We’re dedicated to preserving our lands for future generations and addressing today’s climate challenges head-on.

On other plots we are reforesting and restoring surrounding woodlands. We believe that blending innovation with tradition can shape the future of viticulture.

Agroforestry is a key component of our regenerative farming approach, aimed at boosting biodiversity and improving the local microclimate, all while capturing atmospheric carbon.