Château d’Anglès, located on the northeastern slopes of the Massif de la Clape in southern France’s Languedoc region, epitomizes how sustainable and regenerative farming can enhance wine quality. This estate was acquired in 2002 by Eric Fabre, former technical director of Château Lafite Rothschild, who sought an ideal terroir for Mourvèdre grape cultivation. Rising costs in Bandol led him to discover La Clape’s unique Mediterranean essence.
Taking over the estate in 2017, Fabre’s son Vianney initiated a transition toward organic farming, followed by biodynamic practices, and ultimately embraced regenerative viticulture. During a visit in 2023, the wines exhibited remarkable clarity and an unmistakable saline quality, reflecting Vianney’s deep understanding of soil health.
Vianney focuses on results over dogma, emphasizing that soil regeneration speaks volumes, and he has observed that grapes now achieve optimal maturity at lower alcohol levels than before. For example, Syrah reaches ripeness at 13.5% alcohol, compared to a previous standard of 14.5%.
Recognition for Château d’Anglès’ efforts came through The Wine Society’s inaugural Climate and Nature Programme, which awarded financial support directly to producers. This initiative, opting for ‘insetting’ over offsetting, allocated £64,000 to 11 producers globally, allowing them to invest in sustainable practices without detracting from their primary operations.
In a region rich in natural heritage, the estate’s vineyards are integrated into a landscape characterized by rocky cliffs and dense pine forests. This area’s ecological preservation led to significant investments in regenerative agricultural practices. Specifically, funding allowed the estate to acquire a no-till direct seeder to sow multi-seed cover crops without disturbing the soil, while also facilitating the construction of a roller to help manage cover crops, thus safeguarding soil health.
Additional funds supported the planting of over 500 trees and shrubs and the establishment of 80 beehives, enhancing biodiversity on the estate. Vianney’s participation in an agroecology course further underlines the commitment to sustainable agriculture.
The outcome of these initiatives is evident in the wines produced at Château d’Anglès, which reflect both the care taken in the vineyard and the philosophical approach to sustainability. A notable example is the Château d’Anglès Classique Blanc 2024, which possesses refreshing notes of sea spray and citrus. Priced at £11.50 and rated 94 points, this wine showcases the estate’s commitment to quality and environmental responsibility.
Château d’Anglès exemplifies how vineyard management, underpinned by ethical practices and innovative support, can produce exceptional wines while nurturing the environment. The thoughtful stewardship of the land not only benefits the wine but also acts as a model for agricultural sustainability in the wine industry.