It enjoys an exceptional terroir due to this pristine, remote location and its complex geology, with many exposed strata of rock. The estate is surrounded by forests, hills and valleys in spectacular isolation that, in conjunction with its elevation, create a unique microterroir. A working vineyard since the Middle Ages, the vines had not been tended during the past 50 years.
The vineyard plots are planted on the slopes of the Dentelles and total 35 hectares 87 acres. Harvest can be up to five weeks later than in the valleys below. Xavier and Nicole Rolet purchased the property in , enchanted by the secluded location of the vineyard and the history of the ancient priory that had been built nearly 1, years ago. The estate had been abandoned for much of the previous century, and the buildings were in ruins. The Rolets became completely passionate about every aspect of the place and the project, determined to do absolutely everything necessary to bring it to the highest possible world standards.
A decade of meticulous work was required to restore the priory and nurture the neglected vineyards back to health. The project evolved into a full-fledged winemaking endeavor that entailed reviving and replanting the vineyards, building a state-of-the-art multi-level winery and converting to biodynamic viticulture. As the vineyards began to thrive and the family realized the extraordinary potential of their terroir, they were driven to build a winery worthy of the commitment they had already made to the grapes.
A state-of-the-art winery was essential, so for several years Xavier and Nicole visited some of the most impressive and advanced wineries in the world, consulted advisors, and studied equipment and construction plans.
They then designed and equipped a winery to be built on four levels. Excavation of a meter-deep 36 feet crater through solid rock was their first daunting task.
