Jean Bouldy purchased the Bellegrave property in the southwestern portion of Pomerol in 1951, passing it on in 1980 to his son Jean-Marie and daughter-in-law Pascale, who continued to cultivate it a l'ancienne. For them, that meant more physical work in
the vineyard ? on their mixed soils of stones, sand and red clay ? no chemical treatments or herbicides, and since 2009, steps towards official Organic certification (ECOCERT). "We have rediscovered our profession but also our dialogue with nature," says Jean-Marie. "Rabbits have made their homes here; birds hide their nests under merlot leaves; wildflowers grow between the rows; insects forage; plants, animals and people exist side by side in harmony. The return of wildlife is a sign of good health ? and we must maintain this balance for the vines to live."
The wines at Bellegrave ferment by indigenous yeasts in a combination of cement and stainless steel tanks and age for 20 months in Allier barriques prior to bottling.
Varieties: Merlot (75%), Cabernet franc (25%)
Average age of vines: 25 years
Soils: stones, sand, red clay
Vineyard area: 7.5 hectares
