You may have noticed a new page on our website dedicated to the valorization of bio-waste. Indeed, we wanted to highlight an initiative we started around fifteen years ago, which remains little known. As an extension of our environmentally respectful, sustainable production practices, since the early 2000s, we have implemented a policy of valorizing vineyard by-products. Specifically, we produce dehydrated grape marc and grape seeds, certified organic.
Château le Payral offers two types of by-products to professionals: grape marc and grape seeds.
Grape marc is the solid residue left after pressing, with the liquid part becoming the wine, of course! Marc is often regarded as waste and is usually collected by distilleries for industrial purposes. However, it can also be used by winemakers as an organic amendment… or even distilled into brandy.
At our estate, we dehydrate the marc in ovens, allowing us to preserve it for various uses. From a portion of this marc, we extract the grape seeds. Although products made from grape marc and seeds are growing in popularity, we’re proud to have been ahead of the curve. Our production methods are certified organic and biodynamic, ensuring pesticide-free products, a significant advantage for products used in supplements and cosmetics.
Moreover, as winemakers, we can dehydrate the marc immediately after pressing, which gives it a much higher quality than most industry-processed products, where marc is collected from unknown sources and stored for extended periods.
Zeta x Château le Payral, an innovative partnership focused on bio-waste valorization
This additional string to our bow has led us to develop various partnerships. We began this journey at the request of the head of an American company looking for high-quality grape marc to produce dietary supplements. Our geographical location and organic certification ensure a high level of antioxidants (anthocyanins, resveratrol, tannins) and minimize the risk of pesticide residues.
More recently, starting in 2020, we partnered with Laure Babin, a young entrepreneur and founder of the brand ZETA. This company produces sneakers with the lowest possible impact on the environment and on people. Its original model, Alpha, is a sneaker made from upcycled materials: grape-based plant matter, recycled cork, and recycled plastic. The “Millésime” model incorporates some of our dehydrated marc into the inner and outer soles.
We are always open to other projects and partnerships involving these products; a culinary and gastronomy project is currently underway. Contact us if you are interested and open to innovative projects!
Thierry and Isabelle Daulhiac
