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 Muscadet Côtes de Grandlieu sue Lie AOP "Origine du Haut Bourg" 2014
Grapes: 100% Melon de Bourgogne
Winemaking:
The Origine du Haut Bourg cuvée is a testament to the Choblet family’s winemaking legacy, crafted from vines planted in 1944 by Nicolas and Hervé Choblet’s great-grandfather. This remarkable wine is aged for 9 to 10 years on fine lees in underground tanks, adding layers of complexity and a creamy texture. The terroir, composed of mica schist and granite, imparts a strong mineral backbone, while the extended lees aging brings out exceptional depth and allows the wine to maintain its impressive freshness over time.
Sight:
Golden with green tints, reflecting both its maturity and the vibrant structure achieved through long lees aging.
Nose:
The nose is richly aromatic, offering ripe pineapple, dried fruit, and a strong mineral presence. As it opens, additional notes of citrus and flint emerge, adding to the wine’s complexity.
Palate:
On the palate, this Muscadet is full-bodied and rounded, with a fleshy texture balanced by vibrant acidity. The minerality continues to shine through, giving a crisp and refreshing finish with superb length. The extended lees contact contributes a creamy mouthfeel, making the wine rich yet lively.
Food Match:
Perfect for pairing with seafood, particularly shellfish and fish in sauces, as well as goat cheese. Its structure and complexity also make it an excellent choice for gastronomic occasions.
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