Château Thebaud

2001
The Moreau Family
AOC Muscadet Sevre et Maine sur lie


This Muscadet is quite unique as it is the product of an estate that is a member of the "Cru Communal".  Beginning with the 2001 vintage, a number of independent producers banded together to identify soil characteristics capable of conveying exceptional characteristics to the Melon de Bourgogne grape.  The designation is only permitted for grapes issuing from vines that are at least 15 years old and harvested by hand. Upon vinification, the wine is allowed to rest longer on its lies, 22 months in this case.  The goal is to permit the full expression of what could be called a Grand cru.

Muscadet Sevre et Maine: Produced in the Loire Valley near Nantes, Muscadet is unique among white wines.  It is made from the Melon de Bourgogne grape - one that is relatively light compared to its Chardonnay and Sauvignon sisters.  Sevre et Maine has the reputation for producing the best wine of this type.  It is important that this wine is bottled sur lie, meaning while still in contact with its sediment, which keeps the wine fresh, with good roundness and length.

  

This 7 year old bottle is just starting to open up bringing to mind Premier Cru Chablis in the nose with its still very lively citrus and stone aromatics along with more exotic fruit, notes of smoke and vanilla-scented nuances.  This is a wine of great depth and substance with ridiculous length - Very limited availability.

  

Cepage: Melon de Bourgogne

About the Producer: The Moreaux are the fourth generation to cultivate this vineyard.  It is a family vineyard with vines having a median age of 35 years, accounting for much of the depth and complexity of the wine.  The hand-picked grapes are vinified according to traditional methods.

Tasting Notes:  In the glass, the wine is golden with green highlights.  To the nose, it presents citrusy fruits with a mineral edge.  Its flavor carries the light fruitiness along with lime citrus notes and just a hint of yeastiness and a refreshing and clean mineral edge.

Recommended Food Pairings:   First and foremost: Oysters and Seafood! The crisp, citrusy aspect of the wine truly complements these foods.  Also pairs well with fish, salads, and cheeses.

See AlsoDomaine Clair Moreau Muscadet