Domaine des Hardières

Overlooking the Layon, a tributary of the Loire, the estate and its vineyard benefit from morning mist and sunny afternoons. Its exceptional terroir has encouraged a permanent quest for excellence: a well exposed and well drained vineyard entirely planted on slopes, and schist soils bringing about nice maturity. Boasting a bucolic setting, ideal for contemplation, the estate combines all of the assets required for a perfectly healthy vineyard. Despite being blessed, Domaine des Hardières does not rest upon its laurels: historically recognized for its great white wines, in 1961 it became a forerunner in the production of premium red wines. The estate is currently certified in organic growing and thereby promises to conserve the benefits of its terroir for many years to come.

Domaine des Hardières comprises 23 hectares of vines located north of Layon. Representing an average age of 28 years old, the vineyard is grown according to organic practices respecting the environment, soil and terroir. The conversion over to organic farming began in 2016. The vineyard is planted with Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Chenin. 60% of the surface area under vine is made up of Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon and 25% by Chenin. The vineyard fully benefits from the advantages offered by the Layon Valley, notably autumn mist, allowing the Chenin variety to over-ripen – an important feature of great dry white and sweet wines. The Cabernets on the slopes are well exposed and well ventilated. The hillsides also offer good drainage thereby limiting excess water accumulation in the soils. This situation provides dry conditions allowing the red wines to achieve optimum phenolic ripeness. Its terroir is adapted to age-worthy wines with character.