"Signature" Muscadet Côtes de Grandlieu sur Lie AOP 2016

The Signature cuvée epitomises the potential of Melon de Bourgogne grape when harvested at the peak of ripeness and then aged on their lees for 6 years.

Vineyards and grapes

Located in Bouaye, south of Nantes, the Melon de Bourgogne grapes are sourced from 50-year-old vines within the estate. The unique microclimate, influenced by Grandlieu Lake to the south, the Loire River to the north, and the Atlantic Ocean to the west, promotes optimal grape maturity while enhancing the wine's natural acidity.

Winemaking

The grapes are hand-harvested and gently pressed in whole clusters. The must settles for 48 hours at 13°C before fermentation, which occurs in temperature-controlled tanks. The Signature cuvée is aged on fine lees for six years in underground tanks, a method that adds unparalleled complexity, depth, and texture. This extended aging process enhances the wine's richness while preserving the characteristic freshness of Muscadet.

Appearance

Golden with hints of green, reflecting both its maturity and the extended lees contact.

Nose

A complex bouquet that opens with notes of citrus, yellow peach, and pear, alongside subtle aromas of liquorice and minerals, providing a layered and aromatic experience.

Palate

Rich and broad, the palate is full-bodied with exceptional length. The vibrant acidity balances the richness, while the mineral-driven finish lingers, offering a refreshing yet deep complexity. The lees aging adds a creamy texture, contributing to the wine’s overall finesse and gastronomic appeal.

Food pairing

This wine pairs beautifully with rich seafood dishes like scallops, grilled fish in sauces, and goat cheese. Its complexity and structure make it ideal for refined dishes and special occasions.

Aging potential

While drinking beautifully now, it will continue to develop over the next 5-7 years, showcasing further complexity and depth.

Accolades

17.5 points from Jancis Robinson MW

Background story

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 adhering to the Terra Vitis charter and use minimal chemical intervention to maintain the health of their 30 to 70-year-old vines, 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. Their 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.