Our approach recognizes that there is no trade-off between premium quality wine grapes and ecological farming. Regenerative practices that build healthy soils, retain water, and foster rich biodiversity — above and below ground — create the ideal environment for producing healthy vines and vibrant, flavorful fruit. Read about our approach below.
Integrating animals into vineyards is a central principle of regenerative viticulture. Grazing animals can reduce tractor passes by munching down vineyard floor undergrowth, while building soil health and fertility. The improved soil microbiology contributes to carbon sequestration and biodiversity, and these living soils naturally lend complexity of flavor to the winegrapes. In our vineyard, we rotate Cayuga ducks, a mixed flock of laying hens, and KuneKune pigs, a smaller heritage breed from New Zealand that is a true grazing pig.
We maintain animals onsite year-round and systematically rotate them through the vines and forested areas. While labor-intensive, rotational grazing is a key tenet of healthy soil and animal management. This practice encourages them to consume a wider range of vegetation and invasive species, instead of cherry picking their favorite treats from the closest areas to home. Rotational grazing helps protect the animals from parasites and the land from compaction and overgrazing, and distributes the benefits of animal integration throughout the farm.
Our vineyard uses two 5,000-gallon polytanks and a 137,000-gallon cistern to catch rainwater via gravity all winter to use judiciously for thirsty vines in the summer. After the initial growth phase, we will use this sustainably harvested water to irrigate strategically, with infrequent deep drinks that keep the vines healthy while prompting them to send their roots deep into our Bellpine soils.
The energy required to pump the water to vineyard blocks through our drip-irrigation system is powered by our rooftop solar panels.
Originally a conventionally-farmed hay field, we have used cover crops to increase plant diversity, add nitrogen to the soil with legumes, and increase nectar sources for pollinators. In an effort to reduce tillage, which can cause erosion and release of carbon into the atmosphere, we have experimented with no-till (permanent cover) over the years. Currently we strike a balance with "reduced-till," where we leave a permanent cover of native forbs, legumes, and grasses some years, and till and cover crop other years depending on the needs of vines and animals.
Our vineyard name was inspired not only by our French heritage, but an adventure in southwest France involving a hot air balloon blown off-course and a would-be stay in the Hotel St-Merry. St. Merry, the patron of the Right Bank of Paris, reminds us of the importance of merrymaking and conviviality.
We also sell duck eggs in the local Dallas area!
