Located in Bouaye, south of Nantes, Domaine du Haut Bourg is a family estate in the heart of the Muscadet Côtes de Grandlieu appellation. Established in 1945, the estate has been cultivated by four generations of the Choblet family. Today, brothers Hervé and Nicolas Choblet manage the 40-hectare vineyard, producing some of the region's most outstanding wines in both AOP Muscadet and IGP Val de Loire. The vineyards benefit from a unique microclimate, influenced by the nearby Grandlieu Lake to the south, the Loire River to the north, and the Atlantic Ocean to the west.
This geographical setting ensures minimal temperature variations between day and night, promoting early grape maturity. The terroir, composed of mica schist, granite, sand, and sedimentary rocks, lends a distinctive texture and balance to the wines. The Choblets practise sustainable viticulture, adhering to the Terra Vitis charter, and use minimal chemical intervention to maintain the health of their 30 to 70-year-old vines.
In the cellar, grapes are harvested at optimal ripeness and gently pressed in whole
clusters. The must is allowed to settle for 48 hours at 13°C before fermentation, which occurs at controlled temperatures of 18°C to 20°C using indigenous yeasts. Domaine du Haut Bourg has pioneered the method of extended lees contact in tank, with some of their special cuvées maturing on lees for up to 8 years, adding complexity and depth to their wines, showcasing remarkable ageing potential. We’ve been working with them for nearly 20 years, and they’ve picked up a lot of press attention and top points along the way – check out Jancis Robinson, Robert Parker and Decanter in particularly.
Domaine du Haut Bourg "Plaisance" Méthode Traditionelle NV
Grapes: 100% Grolleau Gris
Winemaking:
Vinified using the traditional method, "Plaisance" is a sparkling wine crafted from Grolleau Gris. The wine undergoes its secondary fermentation in the bottle, with an extended time on lees, contributing to its fine bubbles and complexity. The Grolleau Gris variety imparts delicate aromatics, and the wine is known for its finesse and persistence on the palate. This cuvée stands out for its subtle elegance, balancing freshness with depth.
Sight:
A very pale, slightly greyish hue with fine streams of bubbles, showcasing its refined mousse.
Nose:
The bouquet reveals floral notes, alongside aromas of apricot and subtle spices, characteristic of the Grolleau Gris grape.
Palate:
On the palate, "Plaisance" offers fine bubbles with a soft yet persistent mouthfeel. Its well-integrated acidity enhances the wine’s freshness, while the delicate fruit flavours linger on the finish, making it both refreshing and refined.
Food Match:
An ideal choice for apéritifs, "Plaisance" also pairs beautifully with desserts or lighter dishes. Its freshness and elegant bubbles make it a versatile sparkling wine suitable for various occasions.
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