Maison Philippe Valette

Philippe Valette is the third generation of winegrowers managing an 8.5-hectare estate in Chaintré, a village straddling the border of the Mâconnais and Beaujolais wine regions. Since 1992, the estate has been dedicated to biodynamic cultivation, though it remains uncertified. Historically, as young, rebellious vignerons, they chose not to seek certification as a statement of their commitment to freely nurture the land and honour the living ecosystem. Over the years, Philippe has skillfully adapted his chardonnay vineyards to enhance the expression of the terroir, eschewing chemical treatments altogether.

“Instead, he relies on the rich microbial life within his vineyard soil to produce vibrant wines.”

Depending on the specific cuvée and the characteristics of the vintage, Philippe opts to age his wines in old oak barrels, with the ageing period ranging from six months up to five years. He also vinifies some of his wines and ages them for up to 8 years. These, sometimes feature striking oxidative notes, which, though not always appreciated by novices, add a unique character to the cuvées.In general his wines are full of flavour and texture, they are complex, mineral and powerful.