The switch from Domaine Chamfort to Domaine La Perdriere marks an exciting new phase for this estate. Vasco and Sonia Perdigao took over the estate in 2010, bringing new ideas such as sustainability and a renewed focus on quality. Although we were previously clients, we at Hourlier Wines have fostered a strong partnership with this family business, so we talked to them about their rebranding and what it means for them and their future in a competitive and ever-changing world.

How it started

Sonia and Vasco chose this vineyard primarily because of its location in the Vaucluse region of the Rhône Valley, and the uniqueness of the terroir. “We had visited several estates in the area. We were looking for an operational business with an existing cave to make wine and with terroirs that suited us.” Sonia says.

“When we arrived, we had a two-year-old daughter, and it was quite overwhelming. I was a nurse, not from the wine world—at least not in 2010. We wanted to keep things running smoothly, as there were already existing clients, including yourselves. We didn’t want to disrupt things but rather continue in the same direction.” she added.

From Chamfort to La Perdriere

After developing the wines and growing sales for 15 years, keeping most of the existing customers and gaining new ones who trust them, they started major modernisation to the wine-making facility, particularly the chai (storage and ageing equipment)—always with that focus on quality, not quantity. It was the occasion to bring to life an idea that has been running through their mind for years: make the name of the estate theirs. 

“We worked with a communication agency to create a brand identity that reflects who we are—something simple and timeless.” Sonia explained. La Perdriere is inspired by Vasco's family name, "Perdigao," meaning "partridge" in Portuguese and Provencal regional language. It refers to the place where partridges take shelter, and is also the name of their signature Vacqueyras wine, so it was a natural choice. Managing the rebranding on top of the building project was challenging, but they felt it was a "now or never" moment.

A New Era, Evolving with Purpose

The upgrading work is still ongoing, with the installation of solar panels on the roof, in keeping with their commitment to sustainability. Since they started in 2010, Sonia and Vasco have been working 90% organically. “Some of our clients, who only work with organic producers, encouraged us to get certified, and we finalised this in 2018.” Sonia says. 

When asked about what plans they have for the future, Sonia emphasised making even better wines is the priority, which will be possible with the completion of the facility improvements. Then she shared one of their goals in a more distant future. “We would love to have vine plots in Gigondas, as it’s close to us. We are waiting for opportunities—not being from the region, it’s difficult.”.

What would you say is your favourite wine in your range?

“It’s like asking about a favourite child—we don’t necessarily have one! There are times when we love one cuvée and another a bit less. One of the best terroirs we have is in the heights of Séguret, where we produce our cuvée 'C’est Beau Là-Haut'. The yields are tiny, and the soil is tough to work with, but when the grape is good, it’s exceptional. We’re also very proud of our white wine—we produce little of it, but we try to vinify it as best as possible.”

What’s the most common question people ask you?

It depends! It can often be about working as a couple—it’s not always easy, but it’s been a while now, we’ve found our rhythm, and it’s working well. It’s also about the job—it’s demanding and stressful, especially with the weather and the context in economics and politics. They are things we have no control over; it’s scary. We can make the best wine in the world, but if we can’t sell it…

Domaine La Perdriere is strategically placed in the Rhône Valley, known for some of the finest wines in the world. With plots in areas like Vacqueyras, Rasteau, Sablet, and Séguret, the estate offers a wide range of wine styles. Each area adds unique traits to the wines, from strong reds to elegant flavours. Sonia and Vasco only changed the name and the label—their wines remain with the same outstanding quality, and so is their commitment to sustainability and their passion for what they do. We are very proud to support them in this new chapter and cannot wait to bring you more of their range to taste here at Hourlier Wines.