Domaine Pedres Blanques is the creation of Rié and Hirofumi Shoji, a couple whose passion for winemaking brought them from Japan to the vineyards of Collioure in the Côtes Catalanes in Soth West France Their journey began at the wine school in Beaune, where they met and developed their skills. Rié gained invaluable experience working with notable winemakers such as Fred Mugnier, while Hiro spent five years honing his craft at Domaine de Chassorney.
Domaine Pedres Blanques spans 3.5 hectares in the remote and stunningly beautiful region of Collioure. The vineyards are planted with Grenache, with vines dating back to 1965 and 1989. These steep, terraced slopes of schist and granite are situated near the sea, benefiting from the fierce Tramontane wind. This unique terroir provides an environment free from frost and disease, allowing the couple to farm organically without the use of copper .
Committed to sustainability, Rié and Hiro practice organic viticulture, currently in conversion. The arid climate and strong winds reduce the risk of disease, enabling them to avoid chemical treatments. All vineyard work is done by hand or with a rototiller, reflecting their meticulous approach to maintaining the health and vitality of the vines. This dedication ensures that their vineyards remain in harmony with the natural environment.
In the cellar, the winemaking philosophy focuses on minimal intervention. The couple uses 100% whole cluster fermentation with ambient yeasts, ensuring that the natural character of the grapes is preserved. The vinification process includes a one-month maceration without pumping, and no sulfur is added throughout the vinification process. The wine is aged for six months in a combination of tanks and barrels (500L, 350L, 228L), allowing for gentle and expressive aging.
Domaine Pedres Blanques, under the stewardship of Rié and Hiro, is a testament to the couple’s dedication to quality and authenticity. Their journey from Japan to the rugged vineyards of Collioure has resulted in wines that beautifully capture the essence of their unique terroir as well as an authentic expression of their cultural heritage.
