With wife Charlotte, Aurélien is now planting a flag firmly on the Rhone map, continuing the Houillon family’s strong strides toward innovation. Purchasing their 9 hectare property back in 2016, the couple, who met in Switzerland where Aurélien was studying biodynamic farming, immediately set to converting 4.5 hectares of vines organic, with biodynamic practices gradually integrated also.

The couple continue the family tradition of largely forgoing sulphur, eliminating chemical exposure at every opportunity; tilling soils to minimise even natural herbicide use and having resident fertilisers Victory and Beaver (horse, the former, donkey, the latter) enrich the soil in the way they know best.

The wild character of Rhone is captured in Domaine Houillon’s wines; brimming with forest scents, fresh flora and earthy texture of the moorlands that are preserved across the property. Fresh, herbaceous, uber lush – all with seesaw strict balance and the rustic charm of a farmhouse. We love that these are wines worth taking seriously, talking about, pairing thoughtfully with a meal that befits them.

After all, just about any old dog can make a wine. It takes talent, thought and heart to make classic styles new again – Charlotte and Aurélien have nailed it, and we’re excited to see what pearlers are coming next.