The secrets of this age-old tradition on the Ile de Ré
Ideal climatic, oceanic and geological conditions. Demanding know-how combined with a touch of innovation, of course. But above all, the work of 65 winegrowers united within the Cave Coopérative UNIRE, passionate about the intensity of their terroir.
Since the time of the Romans, respect for nature and the cultivation of vines have been anchored in the traditions of the Retais. It’s a tradition that has been perpetuated since the first vines were planted by Cistercian monks in the 12th century, and continues to this day, where every year two million bottles of wine are produced under the “Vignerons de l’ile de Ré” label, scattered across a mosaic of terroirs. These include white, rosé, red and sparkling wines, as well as Pineau and Cognac, as the Ile de Ré is the last land to the west to be included in the Cognac appellation d’origine contrôlée.
Organic viticulture is an undeniable asset for the vineyards of Ré, promoting product quality, soil life and the sustainability of plant and animal species, while fostering the island’s natural, protected ecosystem.