As a rule of thumb, grapevines typically have a lifespan of 50 years. With age, the yield of the vine diminishes, while the quality of the grape clusters improves. However, there are always exceptions to the rule, such as certain vineyards that witness the turn of a century. In the Valle del Loira (spanning the heart of France), Xavier Weisskopf cultivates vines that are over 90 years old. It could be said that rather than merely cultivating, this vintner (who established his own domaine, Le Rocher des Violettes, at the age of 25), zealously preserves and safeguards this vinous treasure located in the commune of St-Martin-Le-Beau, within the A.O.C. Mountlouis-sur-loire (in Touraine).
This region, nestled between the banks of the Cher and the Loire rivers, has been traditionally dedicated to viticulture. Everywhere you look, each corner is steeped in history and tradition. Perhaps for this reason, Xavier Weisskopf was certain that this would be the place where he would lay down roots after his apprenticeship with Louis Barruol at Château Saint Cosme (in Provence). Or perhaps it was because of the terroir, unparalleled in the world, comprised of clay-limestone soils known as Tuffeau or Tufa. This limestone, interlaced with flints, perfectly regulates both the temperature of the vines and their water and mineral intake. In the first case, the flints retain the sun's heat (releasing it at night); in the second, it directly influences the plant, capturing all the unique nuances of the terrain.
In total, Le Rocher des Violettes spans over 17 hectares that are ecologically certified and tended by hand, with utmost respect for the ecosystem. Xavier Weisskopf conducts all of his vinifications in a 15th-century cave carved directly into the tufa stone, located on the outskirts of St-Martin-Le-Beau. The main appeal of this location lies in its ambient temperature, which remains constant between 13°C and 14°C, ensuring that temperatures do not spike during spontaneous alcoholic fermentations. For Le Rocher des Violettes Le Grand Clos, the wine will ferment and age for approximately one year in 500-litre foudres (some of which are first-fill).
Indeed, experience counts for much; and Le Rocher des Violettes Le Grand Clos is at the pinnacle of excellence: a privilege that few can claim.