Domaine Tardieux
As a teenager, Simon Tardieux began working in the vines of the influential organic domaine of Clos Roche Blanche. After university and a short stint as a social worker, Simon decided to return to his hometown of Thésée and get back to his true calling: working outside in the vines. The only problem was that he didn’t have any vineyards. So, in 2009, Simon teamed up with his neighbor, Alain Courtault, who has long been farming organically (Alain was the third producer in the region to practice organic viticulture, starting back in 1998), but was still selling most of his harvest off to the local coop. Together, they created a range of simple, eminently drinkable wines that showcase the best of French farming and winemaking. Simon took over the domaine gradually, mentored along the way by Alain as he prepared for his retirement. Fruit is exclusively hand-harvested (a true rarity in the region), all fermentations are with native yeast, and no oak is used for élevage. The work in the vineyards goes far beyond following the rules of organic farming. Every decision Simon makes is the result of thoughtful deliberations and an effort to promote a local 'paysan' culture between local farmers and winemakers. Simon helps maintain a collective compost pile, organizes local fairs for organic winemakers, and works with a local photographer to document the year-round effort of life in the vineyards. Following Alain's retirement in 2020, Simon took over the domaine gradually, mentored along the way by Alain.
