Beatrice Mayard
Vignobles Mayard is an outstanding property in the Rhône’s most renowned appellation, Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Following the phylloxera epidemic that decimated the French wine industry in the late 1800s, many vignerons emigrated to the New World. Gratien Mayard, Françoise’s great-grandfather, was set to follow them when he finally succumbed to the pull of his home and stayed to work the land. He painstakingly replanted the vineyards, vine by vine, and began making wine under the new Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation. The history of Vignobles Mayard perhaps explains the decision to rid of chemicals in the vineyards and to use more environmentally friendly, labour-intensive methods. Careful attention is paid to the vines throughout the year with de-budding and green harvesting essential.