History

It was during his research on the "Norman Funds” at the University of Caen, during his time there as a law student that Gerard Samson found the first mention of the pre-existence of a vineyard located in Grisy "a mile north-west of the church."Since he first stumbled on its whereabouts, irrefutable evidence regarding the historical authenticity of the site and the surrounding culture has accrued.
Detailed on map of Cassini dated 1761, it is fascinating to see that the present location of ARPENTS DU SOLEIL is detailed with vineyard, and mention the words "Maison du Vigneron (House of the Winegrower).  It is the only place in Normandy which the official geographer of Louis XV deigned a place worthy of such a prestigious title.
Other more accurate evidence is revealed in the late 18th century in the form of past deeds before the notary of Saint Pierre-sur-Dives. One of those small ironies of history: Gerard Samson became a notary in the same town, and office in 1990.
The parish registers also made their contribution, revealing the vital statistics of former vineyards.
From 1792 to 1995, the "Piece du Soleil" was handed down in direct line within the same family, Leriche.
Since 1995 the land was returned to its original fate of wine producing.