EXPERT WINEMAKERS
Around 100 winegrowers have mastered the different facets of grape growing and production. Over the course of the year, they may be bolstered by additional seasonal workers and, at harvest time, by over 1,000 harvest workers who come to help pick grapes.
AN EXCELLENT TERROIR
Spread over a landscape of hills, the Veuve Clicquot vineyards are in an optimal position to catch the sun’s rays. These zones are defined according to key criteria from the AOC, delineating sun exposure, sloping, soil, and subsoil. A north-facing position leaves the vines exposed to variations in climate such as frosts in winter or spring, causing unfertilized grapes or grape drop; however, it can also result in moderate rainfall and temperatures, with temperate summer and autumn seasons.
ADAPTED PLANTS
The vines are selected for their quality rather than volume of production. They are also chosen to ensure a harmonious blend between the three varietals (Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier) as well as the different terroirs of the vineyards.
A CEASELESS VIGILANCE
Cutting, binding, maintaining soil, and fighting disease — the vines demand a lot of time and attention. A vine has an average lifespan of 40 years, and according to its age often requires different treatment. One hectare of vineyard requires 380 to 420 hours of work per year, without counting the intense work of harvesting. Throughout the year, work is carried out as part of sustainable viticulture, respecting the terroir, the environment, Mother Nature, and the safety and security of the staff.
PROTECTING THE VINES
The protection of the vines against fungal diseases and insects is an essential part of preserving the vines, ensuring the quality of the leaves, and the quality of the grapes. This protocol requires precise management of the frequency of treatments and a sound understanding of the best choices for managing vines.
THE CONSERVATION OF THE SOIL
Conserving the vineyard soil ensures the balanced nutrition of the vines, avoids weed growth, and prevents erosion. At Veuve Clicquot, soil is nourished with respect to the environment, exclusively using organic fertilizers. Veuve Clicquot reduces the frequency of weeds with grass strips between the vineyard rows, and by trimming under the vines via mechanical means without using pesticides – for the majority of the vineyards.