04/12/2025

Old vines planted in 1955: why are they rare and precious?

We often speak of “old vines” without considering what that really means. At Domaine La Doussinière, some of our parcels were planted in 1955 . They are therefore nearly 70 years old. At this stage, it is about more than age: they are a living memory of the terroir. 🍇 1. Naturally low yields, extraordinarily concentrated fruit With time, a vine slows down. Less vigour, fewer bunches, smaller berries. What it loses in quantity, it gains in concentration : deeper aromas, greater precision of texture, a natural intensity that cannot be manufactured. Old vines produce wines that speak softly, yet say a great deal. 🌱 2. Deeply anchored roots After several decades, the roots reach far down into the soil. They seek out: water deep underground, fine mineral salts, nuances of the terroir that young plantings do not reveal. This gives wines greater complexity, subtlety and presence. A kind of truth of the soil. 🕰️ 3. Exceptional consistency, even in difficult years Old vines respond differently to climatic extremes. They withstand: drought, intense heat, sudden changes. They produce less, but with greater balance . This explains why our old-vine cuvées remain true to their style year after year. 🔧 4. Delicate work, often more demanding Working with a vine planted in 1955 is far from straightforward. It means: understanding its rhythm, adapting pruning, easing its load without weakening it, protecting it without disruption. It is a relationship. An old vine is not commanded; it is respected . 🏛️ 5. A parcel carrying history These vines were planted two generations before us. They have survived storms, changing practices and difficult years. Today, they represent a living heritage, fragile and precious. We have a responsibility to pass that heritage on. 🍷 6. The result in the glass It is simple: wine from old vines speaks a different language. It gains: depth, length, structure, energy, individuality. This is more than a style. It is clear in the glass . Our old vines planted in 1955 are more than a selling point. They embody a philosophy: 👉 produce less, but produce better . 👉 respect living things. 👉 let the terroir express itself with as little interference as possible. This is what guides L’Originel, L’Authentic and L’Essentiel. Wines rooted in history and looking towards the future.