Biocontrol, a Principle of Committed Viticulture
At Philipponnat, the perpetual quest for perfection involves a key step: rigorous vineyard management. For a number of years now, the company has been committed to protecting its vines from external aggressors (particularly wildlife and the vagaries of the weather) while conserving living organisms and ecosystems. Champagne Philipponnat has therefore opted for biocontrol and encourages all its partners to adhere to these rigorous specifications.
Biocontrol is a set of practices designed to protect vines as naturally as possible. Pest control is therefore carried out using products of natural origin, whether micro-organisms or substances of natural origin. Unlike conventional products, they are designed not to eliminate undesirable organisms, but to strengthen the vine’s natural defences, or to modify environmental conditions so as to improve vine health. The aim of biocontrol is thus to ensure peaceful coexistence between the vine and the living world around it.
In the Philipponnat vineyards, this philosophy is put into practice through the application of natural preparations. Chemical products are thus replaced with preparations inspired by biodynamics: for example, the teams concoct willow teas and essential oils, which are applied to the vine leaves. This stimulates the vine’s natural defences, thus helping to prevent downy mildew, powdery mildew and botrytis. In the event of frost or hail, comfrey tea is prepared and applied to the injured vines.
This biocontrol philosophy calls for constant monitoring of the vine’s development and swift action when a hazard appears. At Philipponnat, there is an entire dedicated team ready to intervene rapidly throughout our vineyards as needed, for example in the event of extreme weather conditions.
The House’s aim is to treat the vines naturally, taking care to preserve an endangered ecosystem, even if this requires more time, attention and investment. The health of the vines is priceless, as is preserving the living environment for future generations. This philosophy goes hand in hand with ambitious efforts to do everything possible to combine excellence with respect for the living world.
