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.
Domaine Haut Bourg Muscadet Côtes de Grandlieu Sur Lie AOP "Signature" 2016
Grapes: 100% Melon de Bourgogne
Winemaking:
The Signature cuvée is the epitome of Domaine Haut Bourg’s craftsmanship. Harvested at the limit of over-ripeness, the grapes are from vines averaging 50 years old. The wine is aged on fine lees for six years in underground tanks, a method that adds unparalleled complexity, depth, and texture. This long aging process enhances the wine's richness, while maintaining the freshness that characterises Muscadet wines from the Côtes de Grandlieu appellation.
Sight:
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 Match:
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.
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