In the third episode of the Entre Deux Vins podcast, Armand Heitz, a passionate winemaker in Burgundy, shares his vision of sustainable viticulture, agronomy and the future of quality wine production. This episode plunges us into the world of tomorrow's agriculture, where soil preservation and the use of resistant grape varieties are central concerns.
Agronomy: A solution to global warming
One of the major topics discussed by Armand Heitz was agronomy and its implications for the future of viticulture. For him, agronomy is much more than a scientific discipline: "It's a global issue". In his view, soil biodiversity is under threat, with increasingly impoverished soils and clay soils that become as hard as concrete in drought. In this context, he sees agronomy as a potential solution to counter the effects of global warming.
Armand insists that viticulture must adapt to new ecological and climatic challenges. Soil cultivation, water management and the preservation of biodiversity are priorities which, in the long term, could have a significant impact on the fight against climate change. However, he points out that although many studies point to agronomy as a solution, this approach is still vague and requires more concrete action.
The importance of resistant grape varieties and sustainable viticulture
Armand Heitz also stands out for his commitment to more environmentally-friendly viticulture, using disease-resistant grape varieties that require fewer treatments. "The most organic viticulture there is is the use of these grape varieties," he explains. For him, research into more resistant grape varieties is essential, as it reduces the need for chemical treatments and encourages more autonomous, sustainable viticulture.
The use of resistant grape varieties, according to Armand, could transform viticulture by reducing the number of interventions required while guaranteeing quality wines. He also stresses that sustainable viticulture should not be synonymous with extra work for winemakers, but rather with a more intelligent approach that respects natural cycles.
The story of a passionate winemaker
Armand Heitz's career is also a story of passion. "I've worked hard on my palate," he confides, referring to his training as a wine taster, which has enabled him to better understand the subtleties of wine and refine his own approach to winemaking. But beyond simple tasting, he had to decide what type of wine he wanted to produce for the estate. "I had to decide what type of wine I liked to set a course," he explains, emphasizing that his vision of wine has evolved over time.
Agri-food and the disconnect between producer, chef and consumer
One of the most interesting points in the interview concerns the growing disconnect between producers, chefs and consumers in the agri-food sector. Armand notes that, while Burgundy is in demand internationally and its wines are present on the world's finest tables, the link with meat production is often neglected. "I think we respect grapes more than animals," he points out, lamenting the way in which the agri-food industry has severed the links between the source of products and their final consumption.
Armand highlights a fundamental problem: the lack of recognition for the work of meat producers, who, he believes, deserve respect similar to that accorded to winemakers. This debate raises questions about how we perceive the provenance of our food, and the responsibility that falls to each link in the production chain.
Tasting: a subtle, gourmet wine
The episode concludes with a wine tasting that perfectly illustrates Armand Heitz's approach: "It's delicate and at the same time it's gourmand". During this tasting, Armand describes a wine whose nose is at once fermentative, gourmand, brioche and toasted. He evokes a sensation of finesse, but with an aromatic complexity that makes it an interesting and unique experience.
The wine in question is not characterized by the intense aromas of a Sauvignon or Chenin, but by a discretion that invites discovery. This subtle profile is the result of meticulous work in the vineyards and Armand's determination to produce wines that are balanced, respectful of the earth and of great finesse.
Conclusion: a committed and inspiring vision
This episode with Armand Heitz is a real invitation to rethink viticulture from a more sustainable, environmentally-friendly perspective. His commitment to agronomy, the use of resistant grape varieties and his vision of a more nature-friendly viticulture make him a winemaker to watch. With his energy and passion, Armand reminds us that every bottle of wine is the fruit of hard work, a deep connection with the land and a constant search for balance.
We invite you to listen to this fascinating episode onOeni 's Youtube channel to discover Armand Heitz's vision of the future of viticulture and sustainable agriculture.
