Fontbonau

The Fontbonau farm is documented dating back to the 15th century, and an adjoining 12th-century Cluniac priory was built over a Gallo-Roman place of worship. In 2008, childhood friends Frédéric Engerer and Jérôme Malet created the estate.

Located near Montbrison-sur-Lez in Drôme provençale, the estate sits at an altitude of approximately 350 meters at the foot of the Massif de la Lance. Vineyards include 50-year-old Grenache vines, alongside one planted hectare of Roussanne and Viognier, followed by Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon. Old vines grow in limestone and sandy-loam soils with fine clays over crumbly molassic safre sandstone. Farming is organic and biodynamic, inspired by permaculture; mechanical plowing, organic plant protection, and spring sheep grazing aerate the soil and support auxiliary flora and fauna. Designed by Versions agency with eco-responsible architecture, the winery generates its own electricity. Parcels are vinified in separate tanks to reflect their distinct terroir, yields average 25 hectoliters per hectare, and wines are produced without sulfur or external inputs.