Wine for sale: Pedres Blanques

Pedres Blanques

Using natural methods from the vineyard to the winery, this estate, still standing despite threats, showcases Grenache in all its purity and authenticity.

Perhaps you have already heard of the Roussillon estate Pedres Blanques. Since 2017, it has been run by a Japanese couple, Rié and Hirofumi Shoji, who, right from the outset, received an eviction notice from the regional prefecture, outraged by their lack of income. This caused quite a stir in the wine world, as the two owners were already known for the high quality of their work. In fact, before embarking on their own venture, the couple had gained experience working for large estates such as La Tour Figeac, Dominique Derain and the Domaine de Chassorney managed by Frédéric Cossard. With a passion for the southern Grenache grape variety, they purchased a 3.5-hectare vineyard in the Collioure appellation in 2017. The site is characterised by schist, granite and white pebble slopes. Work here is arduous as it is impossible to use machinery. The owners have completely banned pesticides and chemical inputs, even copper. The result is nevertheless strikingly natural and worthy of attention. It is worth noting that the work in the winery is meticulous and aims to be as low-intervention as possible. The idea? Let the grapes express their terroir of origin. Sulphur has therefore been banned, inert containers (stainless steel vats) are preferred, and the ageing process is carefully monitored. Bottling is done by hand, using gravity.