Mouscadet Les Gras Moutons 2023

750ml

Overview

Domaine de la Pépière Muscadet Sèvre-et-Maine Les Gras Moutons 2023 is a top-tier Muscadet, made from grapes sourced from the renowned Les Gras Moutons vineyard in the heart of the Sèvre-et-Maine appellation. This wine is a testament to the potential of the Melon de Bourgogne grape when grown on soils rich in schist and gneiss. Known for its vibrant acidity, crisp texture, and mineral-driven profile, this wine reflects the pure expression of the terroir, with the winemaker's commitment to biodynamic farming practices and minimal intervention in the cellar.

Vinification and Aging

• Fermentation: The grapes are hand-harvested from vines that have been cultivated according to biodynamic principles. After harvest, they are gently pressed, and fermentation occurs in stainless steel tanks to preserve the freshness and purity of the fruit.
• Aging: The wine is aged sur lie for several months, with regular batonnage (lees stirring) to enhance the texture and complexity. This method imparts a richness to the wine, contributing to its roundness and depth without compromising its crisp, mineral-driven character.
• Bottling: The wine is bottled without fining or filtration, ensuring that its natural qualities and expression of terroir are preserved.

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: The wine presents a bright, pale yellow color with green tints, typical of young Muscadet wines.
• Aroma: On the nose, Les Gras Moutons 2023 showcases a bouquet of citrus fruits, such as lemon and lime, alongside notes of green apple, pear, and white flowers. The minerality is prominent, with subtle hints of wet stone and oyster shell, reflecting the terroir. The extended lees aging adds a touch of brioche and a faint yeasty note, providing complexity to the aroma.
• Palate: The wine is crisp and fresh on the palate, with a lively acidity that gives it a sharp, clean structure. The citrus and apple flavors are complemented by a strong minerality and subtle saline notes. The mouthfeel is round and smooth due to the lees aging, and the finish is long and refreshing, with a slight creamy texture.

Food Pairing

This wine is ideal for pairing with a wide range of seafood dishes, including oysters, clams, lobster, and grilled fish. It also pairs well with light poultry dishes, goat cheese, and salads. The crisp acidity and minerality make it an excellent choice to balance rich or fatty foods, such as fried dishes or creamy sauces.

Serving Recommendations

• Serving Temperature: Best served at 8–10°C (46–50°F) to highlight its fresh acidity and crisp profile.
• Decanting: No decanting is needed, though a brief period of aeration can help open up the aromas.

Aging Potential

Les Gras Moutons 2023 has excellent aging potential, with the ability to develop complexity and richness over the next 5–8 years. As it matures, it will gain deeper mineral and brioche notes, making it even more intriguing and layered.