Viticulture

“Pressing Matters vineyard is located on the side slopes of the Coal River Valley. Most of these hills are composed of dolerite, a vulcanic rock that emerged during the Jurassic period. However, the geological history is more complex. This dolerite was under weathering and suffered geological disruptions during the tertiary period, with new vulcanic eruptions. In this way, basalt flows are currently overlying the weathered dolerite. That’s the explanation for the gap between the superficial soil and the underlying level. 

The soils are alkaline dark clay-silty. During the weathering, the alkaline-earth mineral became carbonated and the washed soils calcareous, rather weakly in the top level but really more highly underneath. The rootstock selection must take into account this high level of active limestone for a better development of the roots and to better reveal the ‘terroir’. On the mineral level, these soils are rich in all nutrients, especially in iron, magnesium and manganum, which is very important for obtaining quality in red wines”.

Dominique MASSENOT – AMIs0L
Analyses et cartographies des sols methode BRDA-HERODY Etudes – Conseils – Formations en agriculture-environnement

More than 20 combinations of clones and rootstocks, some planted on own roots, provides a complex viticultural palate to manage. Generally a green and organic approach applies to all inputs and operations but in wet seasons disease risk is mitigated with chemicals. Work in the vineyard is focused on canopy and vine management and the cultivation and promotion of healthier soils.

Mark Hoey – Peak Viticulture