Vineyards and winemaking
Grolleau Gris is a pink-grey-skinned variety native to the western Loire. These grapes come from vines of around 20 years old at Bouaye, where proximity to the Lac de Grand-Lieu and Atlantic helps preserve acidity as the aromatic fruit ripens.
The grapes are gently pressed and cool-fermented to retain their floral and stone-fruit character. Several months on the lees bring a silky texture and extra length while leaving the wine unoaked, fresh and clearly varietal.
Tasting notes
Appearance
Very pale silver-straw with subtle grey reflections.
Nose
Apricot, lychee and melon are framed by white flowers, citrus peel and a light note of sweet spice.
Palate
Aromatic and gently rounded, with ripe stone fruit balanced by zippy acidity. A fine mineral line and touches of ginger and citrus carry the long, clean finish.
Food pairing
Try with grilled squid and lemon, asparagus with goat's curd, lightly spiced chicken skewers, or a salad of crab, cucumber and herbs. Its aromatic lift also makes it a fine aperitif.
Background story
Domaine du Haut Bourg is a four-generation family estate in Bouaye, south of Nantes, now run by brothers Hervé and Nicolas Choblet. The vineyards lie between the Lac de Grand-Lieu, the Loire and the Atlantic, a setting that moderates temperatures and supports fresh, evenly ripened fruit.
Grolleau Gris is little known outside the Pays Nantais, which makes this wine a revealing alternative to Sauvignon Blanc. The Choblets preserve its distinctive apricot, floral and spice character rather than forcing it into a more familiar international mould.
