James and Sarah Wilding of Château Grange Cochard have abandoned St Albans for the charms of the Beaujolais countryside and a delightful property close to Morgon with some fine vineyard holdings, all benefiting from old vines.

Their first vintage at Château Grange Cochard was 2009. The estate consists of 6 hectares of vines, in the appellation of Morgon, including 1.5 hectares on the renowned old volcano of Côte du Py, all within a few hundred metres of the chateau. Most of the vines are between 40 and 100 years old. Their age results in low yields with intense small berries supplying complex structure, discreet tannins, and dark fruit flavours.

The classic Morgon vieilles vignes cuvee is matured in old, 3000 litre oak foudres which allow the wine to soften and fully integrate the fruits and tannins.

Chateau Grange Cochard is committed to sustainable viticulture, following a policy of minimum intervention with increased use of natural farming methods to nourish the soil and maintain a healthy and balanced eco-system. Grass is planted between rows of vines which reduces erosion and naturally restricts weed growth. No insecticides or pesticides are applied and no artificial irrigation systems are used.