2022 Domaine Bretaudeau, Muscadet ‘Gabbro – Clos des Bouquinardieres’, Loire, France

Producer: Jerome Bretaudeau is taking part in reviving the region with his innovative approach & modern take.

He started Domaine de Bellevue,  in 2001 with 2 hectares of family land & expanded to 15 hectares by adding parcels from surrounding communes; he owns 10 parcels, each having their own distinct character soil composition, allowing him to showcase the versatility of the region. He became certified organic in 2012 & Biodynamic in 2016. With his experimental style he uses various varieties other than Melon, like Chardonnay, Savagnin, Sauvignon Blanc & Gris; as well as a variety of vessels from oak to cement eggs & amphora.

Place: The small estate is located in Getigne, in the region of Muscadet, in the Pays Nantais in the westernmost  part of the Loire Valley, France.

The grapes are from a single vineyard in the commune of Gorges right beside Clisson, ‘Clos des Bouquinarderes’.

Farming:  Certified organic in 2012 & Biodynamic in 2016.

Varietal: Melon de Bourgogne ( vines planted from the 1970s to the 1990s)

Soil: Gabbro & clay with quarts – Gabbro ‘Black Granite’ igneous rocks formed from the solidification of molten lava. Unlike basalt, gabbro solidifies below the earth’s surface.

Winemaking: Ambient yeast fermentation, aged 18 months in tanks lined with glass tiles, no fining or filtering, minimal SO2 at bottling

Tasting Notes: Mineral Driven – Rich Texture – Elegant & Vibrant – Citrus, Orchard Fruit & Saline Notes