The point card a new tool for elevating wine quality
From technological to phenolic ripeness in our red Crus
Traditionally, grape evaluations have focused primarily on technological ripeness—the balance between components like sugar and acidity. However, after several years of national research into phenolic ripeness, the need for a more refined evaluation approach emerged. Phenolic ripeness, which measures concentrations of compounds like anthocyanins, is critical for producing complex, structured wines.
Over three years, our team monitored phenolic ripeness across parcels and compared results in the winery. Thanks to the meticulous oversight of Léa Joly, in charge of relations with winegrowers, and scores assigned by our cellar masters to individual tanks, a strong correlation was established between anthocyanin levels in parcels and the final quality of wine in the tank. This led to the creation of the Point Card, which combines phenolic ripeness, technological ripeness, and grape health to provide a more comprehensive evaluation—and ensure fairer compensation for winemakers.
A collective evaluation to serve the collective
To ensure widespread support, the team led by Thierry Sansot, Director of Vine and Wine, collaborated closely with a group of winegrowers—including Fabien Cabezas, Jérémy Aubery, Justin Courbet, and Jean-Paul Anres—as well as Alexis Valette, Cellar Master in Beaumes-de-Venise, whose expertise was invaluable. Together, they developed the Point Card criteria and ensured that every cooperative member, regardless of vineyard size, felt included and had a voice in the process.
Promising early results
First tested during the 2024 harvest, the Point Card facilitated better parcel selection. By following laboratory recommendations and incorporating phenolic ripeness into harvest decisions, the team helped winegrowers in choosing the best time for their harvests, waiting for grapes with more defined character. Despite challenging climatic conditions, the team observed positive results and an overall improvement in quality.
Sharing knowledge to shape the future
.jpg)
This initiative is fully aligned with our commitment to “Vignerons Engagés”, the wine industry’s first sustainability and CSR label. As part of this effort, Thierry Sansot and Léa Joly participated in discussions with other cooperatives in France, such as Dom Brial in Roussillon and Loire Propriétés, to share their experiences and exchange ideas on tools that balance sustainability, economic efficiency, and social impact.
The future looks bright, as this new tool represents a significant step forward in our ongoing quest for improvement. By uniting the talents of our Artisan Winegrowers, the Point Card opens new horizons for the quality of Rhonéa wines while reaffirming our commitment to responsible and sustainable viticulture.