Why are the vines grafted?

Ever since the phylloxera epidemic, grafting has been compulsory in Champagne.

Champagne producers are obliged to use phylloxera-resistant rootstock onto which the Champagne varieties are grafted.

How a young vine is produced:

1. First of all, the scion is grafted onto the rootstock.

2. Next, the grafted plants are covered in wax and placed in a hot-house to consolidate the graft.

3. Once the graft is sealed, the young vine is planted in a nursery.

4. As soon as its root system is established, the young vine is ready for use.