Like much of Saint-Emilion's limestone plateau, La Couspaude's soil has a thin layer of clay-limestone topsoil (from 40 to 80 centimetres deep) on a rocky base.

In several places, the lack of arable soil caused by chalky outcrops calls for an unusual technique. Small (4 to 5 cm) holes are drilled in the rocky sub-strata, then filled with earth. This enables young vines to get off a good start before they become rooted in the rock.

On land such as this, where the use of machines is impossible, everything must be done by hand.

Generally speaking, vines with roots that sink deep into rocky sub-soil have a very well-regulated water supply.

Any excess water is absorbed by the soil, and then released during the dry season.
This gives the vines a beautiful green colour all year round.

The well-modulated water supply provided by the sub-soil leads to good ripening and healthy grapes.

This excellent natural drainage, combined with meagre soil, slightly sloping terrain and a good microclimate, give La Couspaude all the attributes of a prime winegrowing site.

These factors also reduce the estate's sensitivity to frost. As Jean-Claude Aubert points out, "We are on the upper part of Saint-Emilion. Other than being less prone to frost damage, we are also better protected from hailstorms. This is only logical.
The clouds that come in from the west are attracted to the Dordogne and Isle Valleys and so the lower parts of Saint-Emilion usually have more rain".

 

A FAMYLY COMMITMENT - BACKGROUND - THE TERROIR

THE VINEYARD - WINEMAKING - AGEING

 

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