Blessed with a confluence of natural factors, Chêne Bleu has the benefit of an exceptional location, multifaceted geology, and a southern Rhône climate with soils more typical of the northern Rhône. Xavier and Nicole Rolet purchased the property in 1993, enchanted by the secluded location of the vineyard and the history of the ancient priory that had been built nearly 1,000 years ago.  Chêne Bleu has the highest elevation in the region at 550-630 meters. The resulting cool nights and late harvest bring desirable ‘Northern Rhône-style' freshness to the Southern Rhône's rich concentration of fruit and tannin.

The terrain is uneven, rough and rugged, so all vineyard work is done by hand. The vineyards have been separated into mini-parcels to capture the identity of each different sector of soil. Biodynamic viticulture was introduced to preserve the health and individuality of the soil and the vines. The family is working towards managing the entire estate in accordance with biodynamic principles.

Harvest is by hand, and yields are deliberately tiny. The grapes and wine move through the facility via gravity flow, without pumping. Three conical oak tanks are reserved for natural micro-oxygenation for some reds, while 22 temperature-controlled, stainless-steel tanks are used for some reds and all whites and rosés. The winery is specifically designed for small batches, with small tanks to vinify each mini-block separately, using a combination of oak, concrete and stainless steel. Aging in the cellars requires an exacting barrel selection for the top quality wines, using mainly 50 percent new and 50 percent 1-year-old Burgundian oak barrels.