Overlooking the Layon, a tributary of the Loire, the estate and its vineyard benefit from morning mist and sunny afternoons. When it comes to wine production, the property’s exceptional terroir has favored an ongoing quest for excellence: well exposed and well drained vines entirely planted on slopes in schist-laden soil producing fully ripened grapes. In addition to providing a bucolic setting, that is ideal for contemplation, Domaine des Hardières has all the assets of a perfectly healthy vineyard. However, the estate has never taken these attributes for granted: historically reputed for its Great White Wines, it was a forerunner in the production of Loire Valley red wines back in 1961. At present, it is certified in organic vine-growing, thereby promising to conserve the benefits of its terroir for many vintages in the years to come.