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.
Muscadet Côtes de Grandlieu Sur Lie AOP "Le Pavillon" 2022
Grapes: 100% Melon de Bourgogne
Winemaking:
The "Le Pavillon" cuvée is made from 35-year-old vines grown on the Domaine du Haut Bourg estate. The name comes from the vineyard itself, which benefits from the unique terroir of the region, blending the richness of the soil with the complexity of the fruit. After fermentation, the wine is aged on its lees (“Sur Lie”) to enhance its richness and depth. This process adds texture and a long, smooth finish. The cuvée has won multiple awards, including prestigious Gold medals, and is considered the emblematic wine of the estate.
Sight:
Pale green with subtle hints of gold, showcasing the wine’s freshness and vibrant youth.
Nose:
The nose is fresh and inviting, dominated by tropical fruit aromas such as pineapple, with underlying mineral notes that reflect the terroir's unique composition.
Palate:
On the palate, "Le Pavillon" is rich and structured, offering a vibrant mouthfeel with impressive length. The tropical fruit flavours continue on the palate, balanced by a crisp minerality and lively acidity. The wine’s richness is enhanced by its time on the lees, giving it a smooth, lingering finish.
Food Match:
This wine pairs wonderfully with shellfish, grilled fish, and creamy seafood dishes. Its minerality and refreshing acidity also make it a great match for lighter cheeses and vegetable-based dishes.
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