Animal traction is an ancient practice using animal power for work like agriculture, forestry or transportation. Horses, mules, donkeys and oxen have been a regular part of everyday human evolution for centuries. However, in recent decades, these practices have been abandoned so much that they have even been on the verge of extinction. The truth is that having a co-worker of a different species is not as easy as it seems. While it is true that they are much stronger than we are, they also have different instincts, needs and fears. Working with animals requires perseverance, knowledge and responsibility. However, the benefit is clear both from a biological and environmental point of view. One hundred percent renewable, not only does the use of working animals mean zero waste in terms of pollutant emissions, but it also means better preservation of the soil structure, preventing its degradation. Not to mention the reward of having a loyal friend for life at work.
Xavier and Mathieu Ledogar were clear from the beginning, and on their estate in Ferrals les Corbières, in Languedoc-Roussillon, in the south of France, they cultivate 22 hectares of a large number of grape varieties and vineyards between 60 and 120 years old using organic and biodynamic methods. In their vineyards, instead of machines, horses plough the fields and donkeys control the weeds. Their Domaine Ledogar La Mariole, a Carignan red wine, comes from a terroir formed by large strips of soil rich in clay particles, silt and rolled pebbles. Old vines are harvested by hand and transported in small boxes to avoid damaging the berries. Vinification in the winery is traditional, with spontaneous fermentation at a controlled temperature between 18 and 22°C and a 5-day maceration. The wine is then aged for 12 months in used French oak barrels.
Although Domaine Ledogar La Mariole is a Vin de France, the Ledogar brothers belong to a small group of winemakers who are repositioning the Corbières denomination. A natural and respectful approach that allows us to enjoy wines like this one; rich, spicy and very expressive.