THE GEOLOGICAL STUDY OF THE SOIL: THE EXAMPLE OF SOIL PITS
A soil pit is the most precise tool for obtaining an in-depth knowledge of a geological terroir and for understanding the associated functioning of the vine. The process consists of digging a two-metre deep hole in order to explore the horizons of the soil, i.e. its different layers. Therefore, the soil pit makes it possible to understand the constitution of soils and their agricultural interest.
A soil description shows the colour, texture, structure, and also the biological activity of the soil, such as the number of earthworms. It also highlights the impact of human work by measuring the compactness of the soil generated by the use of machines. Ultimately, the pit enables us to improve cultivation practices, as it provides a better knowledge of the soil and allows us to adjust its maintenance potential when planting cover crops.
RESEARCH ENGINEER, AT THE BUREAU NATIONAL INTERPROFESSIONNEL DU COGNAC (BNIC)
Vincent Dumot
Follow Vincent Dumot through our vineyards to learn more about the earth and how we use soil pits to improve our cultivation practices.
“WHAT MAKES A MAN IS HIS CHARACTER, WHAT MAKES A CHARACTER IS NATURE”
THE SOILS AND THE TERROIR OF PETITE AND GRANDE CHAMPAGNE.
The terroir of Rémy Martin Cognac is the result of three components: the soil, the vines and the people working on the land. They are inextricably linked and ensure the excellence of our production.
The House of Rémy Martin has chosen the Grande and Petite Champagne terroirs to produce its eaux-de-vie. The Fine Champagne Cognac, a precise blend of the vintages of these two appellations, is characterised by its soil and climate, which give it all its uniqueness. Harmony between these elements lies in the hands of mankind, who have shaped this territory, a haven of traditions and savoir-faire enriched by each and everyone’s empiricism and intuition.
The term ‘Champagne’ bears the very specificity of its terroir; it comes from the Latin word ‘Campania’, which is associated with limestone soils. The clay-limestone soils, combined with the limestone subsoils, enable a vine’s roots to grow deep, absorb water and trace elements, gradually returning them to the vine according to its needs. This process allows an optimal aromatic ripening of the grapes, as well as ensuring the consistent quality of the eaux-de-vie produced. This is the very foundation of what makes the Rémy Martin Cognac so unique.
Cellar Master, Rémy Martin
Baptiste Loiseau
Baptiste Loiseau talks about the three pillars of a terroir – the soil, the climate and craftsmanship – and how each of these are fundamental to creating exceptional eaux-de-vie and cognacs.
