"Origine du Haut Bourg" Muscadet Côtes de Grandlieu sur Lie AOP 2014

Domaine Haut Bourg Muscadet Côtes de Grandlieu "Origine"

A white wine that defies expectations

At the mouth of the Loire Valley, where the cool Atlantic breezes shape both the land and the vines, Muscadet has long held its place as the quintessential seafood wine. But not all Muscadet is created equal. Domaine Haut Bourg’s Muscadet Côtes de Grandlieu "Origine" breaks away from convention, blending tradition with innovation in a way that leaves a lasting impression.

We have been working with this producer for nearly 20 years and have had the privilege of supplying their exceptional wines to some of the finest dining establishments in the UK, especially those focused on seafood and fish. One taste of "Origine" and you might find yourself questioning everything you know about white wine—this is a Muscadet that once, in a famous blind tasting final of Meilleur Sommelier de France, was mistaken for Premier Cru Chablis. However, what truly sets it apart is the people and philosophy behind the wine.

The story behind Domaine Haut Bourg: The Choblet family

Domaine Haut Bourg is a family-run estate, passed down through generations, and now under the stewardship of Nicolas and Hervé Choblet, who took over in the late 1990s. The vines used for "Origine" were planted by their great-grandfather in 1944, making these 80-year-old vines a living testament to the family’s deep connection to their land. Over the decades, the Choblets have become pioneers in the region, redefining what Muscadet can be.

The Choblet family’s respect for nature is at the heart of their winemaking philosophy. They are certified under Terra Vitis, a commitment to sustainable viticulture that ensures their practices respect both the land and the ecosystem. While they are not officially labelled organic, in practice, they are very close. "We believe in working with the land, not against it," says Hervé. Their approach to viticulture is about nurturing the soil and vines in a way that preserves biodiversity and promotes natural balance.

Nicolas and Hervé’s innovation are also reflected in their use of extended lees aging in tanks—a bold experiment that has since become a hallmark of their craftsmanship. Their decision to age "Origine" on its lees for up to 8 years brings a richness and complexity that few Muscadets can match, all while preserving the wine's remarkable freshness. It’s a balance of tradition and innovation that mirrors the family's approach to winemaking—a philosophy deeply rooted in respect for their land and heritage.

A terroir like no other

Domaine Haut Bourg’s vineyards are all situated in the Commune of Bouaye, a unique location where the microclimate plays a pivotal role in shaping the wine. The soils are composed of red sand, gravel, and small rolled quartz pebbles, which impart fullness and fine balance to the wine. These pebbles, along with the surrounding environment, help create a wine that reflects the distinct characteristics of the land.

What truly sets the terroir apart is its proximity to water—the Grandlieu Lake to the south and the Loire River to the north—and the low altitude of just 15 to 25 metres above sea level. This combination of elements creates a microclimate with low variations in temperature between day and night, which favours early ripening and ensures the grapes mature evenly. The result is a wine with both vibrant freshness and a structured richness that embodies the essence of this special region. You can almost taste the sea breeze in every sip, and the wine carries with it the influence of the cool Atlantic winds.

Winemaking: Crafting a wine that defies time

The extended lees aging in tanks is what sets "Origine" apart from many other Muscadets. While traditional Muscadet may spend a few months on the lees, this wine is aged for up to 8 years, adding layers of complexity and texture without sacrificing its characteristic brightness. This method, unique to the Choblet family, allows "Origine" to develop a creamy mouthfeel while maintaining its signature crispness.

The winemaking process includes batonnage (stirring of the lees) during the first year of fermentation, followed by élevage sur lie fine for 63 months in underground tanks. This practice, while rare in the region, has become the hallmark of Domaine Haut Bourg’s style. The result is a wine that is both fresh and complex—one that continues to evolve in the glass and on the palate. At Sommelier's Choice, we challenge anyone to find a 10-year-old white wine that maintains such remarkable freshness!

Tasting notes: A wine that speaks of its place

Appearance

Pale gold with bright reflections.

Nose

On the nose, Muscadet Côtes de Grandlieu "Origine" opens with aromas of white flowers, citrus zest, and green apple. Saline minerality speaks to its Atlantic-influenced terroir, while deeper notes of almond, quince, pineapple, and fresh-baked bread emerge with time in the glass.

Palate

On the palate, the wine offers a delicate balance of bright acidity and creamy texture. Flavours of lemon, pear, and green apple dominate at first, followed by richer notes of hazelnut, dried fruits, and a faint hint of fennel. The finish is long, leaving behind a lingering sense of minerality, like a fresh sea breeze.

Food pairings: Beyond the usual suspects

While Muscadet is often associated with seafood pairings, "Origine" has the depth and complexity to go beyond the classic match with oysters. Here are some perfect pairings to consider:

• Oysters & shellfish: The wine’s mineral notes and bright acidity make it a natural match for raw oysters, clams, and other shellfish.
• Grilled fish: Try it with grilled sea bass or turbot, where the wine’s acidity and rich texture can complement the fish’s delicate flavours.
• Sushi & sashimi: The clean, fresh flavours of sushi and sashimi work beautifully with this wine, enhancing both the wine’s freshness and the dish’s subtle umami notes.
• Creamy dishes: Seafood risotto or even a chicken in a light cream sauce pairs perfectly with "Origine," thanks to the wine’s lees-derived richness.
• Cheeses: A soft goat’s cheese or a mild, young Brie would pair wonderfully, bringing out the wine’s fruitier characteristics.
• Mildly spicy dishes: Light curries or spiced seafood dishes such as a Thai fish curry can showcase the wine’s fruit and richness, without overpowering it.

Accolades: Critical acclaim from Decanter and Jancis Robinson

The quality of Muscadet Côtes de Grandlieu "Origine" has not gone unnoticed. It has received high praise from renowned wine critics, including a 95-point rating from Decanter and 18 points from Jancis Robinson. These accolades reflect the wine’s exceptional complexity and value, further solidifying Domaine Haut Bourg’s place as a top producer in the region.

Conclusion: Redefining Muscadet, one glass at a time

Domaine Haut Bourg Muscadet Côtes de Grandlieu "Origine" is more than just a wine—it’s a testament to the vision and passion of Nicolas and Hervé Choblet, who have worked tirelessly to push the boundaries of what Muscadet can be. Their respect for the land, their commitment to sustainable viticulture, and their innovative approach to winemaking are all poured into each bottle.

Once tasted, it’s hard to forget the layers of flavour, the precision of the winemaking, and the sense of place that this wine embodies. Whether you’re new to Muscadet or a seasoned wine lover, "Origine" is a wine that challenges expectations and leaves a lasting impression.