Three different varietals will be planted on an area covering 12 hectares, including 8 hectares of Romorantin, introduced to the Val de Loire at the order of François I in 1518-1519, 4 hectares of Pinot Noir and 2,000m2 of Gamay. More than 5 hectares were planted in June of 2015 (1.3 hectares of pre-phylloxera Romorantin and 4 hectares of Pinot Noir), with a further 5.7 hectares of Romorantin and 2,000m2 of Gamay set to be added to the plantation in 2016. The remainder will be planted in 2017.
Overlooking the château of François I and comprising varietals chosen by the King himself, this vineyard is truly exceptional. Part of it is believed to be pre-phylloxeric, that is comprising authentic, non-grafted vines produced from a plot of land that is certified by the public authorities as dating back to before 1840. This project is truly unique in all respects – historical, aesthetic and indeed environmental. The first grape harvest is set to take place in 2019, marking the anniversary of the beginning of the construction of Chambord, with production expected to be within the range of 50,000 to 60,000 bottles.