The Choblet brothers have created a crisp, fruit driven rosé based on their local native grape Grolleau Noir.
Vineyards and grapes
Located in Bouaye, south of Nantes, Grolleau Noir is plantes near to near to the family's famed Muscadet vineyards. The unique microclimate, influenced by the nearby Grandlieu Lake to the south, the Loire River to the north, and the Atlantic Ocean to the west gives added freshness and maturity to the grapes.
Winemaking
The grapes are harvested and gently pressed with skin contact for around 10 hours, allowing the wine to take on its delicate pink hue. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled vats, ensuring that the wine retains its freshness and balance. The juice is allowed to settle for 48 hours at 13°C before fermentation, and malolactic fermentation is prevented to preserve its bright acidity.
Appearance
A light pink colour with soft hues, reflecting the delicate handling of the grapes during winemaking.
Nose
The nose reveals vibrant aromas of gooseberries and small red fruits, with subtle floral notes, offering freshness and liveliness.
Palate
On the palate, this rosé is well-balanced and refreshing, with flavours of crisp red fruits, gooseberries, and a hint of minerality. Its fresh acidity complements the fruit-forward profile, resulting in a vibrant, thirst-quenching finish.
Food match
This rosé pairs beautifully with grilled fish, seafood, salads, and even cured meats. It’s a versatile companion for lighter meals and an excellent choice for warm weather dining.
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, 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 Muscadets are all aged by extended lees contact for up to 10 years in underground tank, quite a revolutionary step at the time and guaranteeing Domaine Haut Bourg a place on the world stage.
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. 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.