????The Chablis Pruning Method: tradition in Champagne???

I had the privilege of visiting the Pommery estate last week, accompanied by the head of viticulture Rémi Vincent , whom I sincerely thank for sharing his expertise in vine sciences with us. ??

What is the "Taille Chablis"?

The "Taille Chablis" is a specific pruning method for Champagne vineyards, mainly used for Chardonnay. The trunk is kept close to the ground, and typically, 3 canes with 5 buds (latent buds) and a "replacement spur" with 2 buds, which will form next year's cane, are left. ????

Why Practice the Taille Chablis?

1. Quantity of Grapes ??: This technique ensures an optimal yield for the base wine production (limited to 11,400 kg/hectare excluding "RI" reserve).
2. Durability and Longevity ??: It helps maintain the vigor of the vines and extends their lifespan, essential for sustainable production by rejuvenating the vine’s arms each year.

How to Perform the Taille Chablis?

1. Extension of Each Cane ??: Keep 5 buds at the end of each cane and then tie each cane to the training wire. Ensure no cane encroaches on the next vine; the density is high, 10,000 vines/ha, and the space between each vine is limited (1m). Generally, 30 cm of spacing is left between each shoot.
2. Removal of the Oldest Cane ??: Be careful to leave a drying cone for healing, as pruning wounds can be significant.
3. Preserve a Replacement Spur with 2 Buds: This spur will form next year’s cane. Beware of rabbits who love these young shoots, so protection is necessary. ?? At Pommery, they also tie the spur with a wire to protect it during mechanical weeding:

Of course, it is not always possible to perform a perfectly technical pruning. Sometimes, for instance, the replacement spur is not usable... it is then necessary to adapt the pruning to each vine.

Thanks again to the VRANKEN-POMMERY MONOPOLE for their exceptional hospitality and wines.

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Feel free to share your experiences and questions about the Taille Chablis! ????