2023 Domaine de la Pépière Muscadet Sèvre-et-Maine "Les Gras Moutons", Loire Valley, France

ABOUT THIS WINE

Sourced from the “Les Gras Moutons” vineyard in the commune of Saint-Fiacre, this bottling comes from old-vine Melon de Bourgogne planted on gneiss and mica-schist soils overlooking the Sèvre River. The site enjoys a slightly warmer microclimate, giving the wine more breadth without sacrificing tension. The 2023 vintage saw a cool, steady growing season that preserved acidity and aromatic clarity. Grapes are hand-harvested and fermented with indigenous yeasts, then aged sur lie for several months in underground vats, enhancing texture and complexity. Crisp citrus, green apple, and saline notes are supported by a fine, chalky backbone. Perfect with oysters, shellfish, goat cheese, or sushi.

ABOUT THIS PRODUCER

Domaine de la Pépière, led by Rémi Branger and Gwénaëlle Croix, continues the legacy of founder Marc Ollivier—one of Muscadet’s most influential figures. Located in the heart of the Sèvre-et-Maine appellation, the estate is certified organic and deeply committed to low-intervention farming and winemaking. All grapes are harvested by hand (rare in the region), and fermentations are native, with long lees aging enhancing purity and complexity. Pépière is known for bottlings that reflect distinct vineyard sites with precision and energy, elevating Melon de Bourgogne into a transparent conduit for place. Les Gras Moutons exemplifies their philosophy: expressive, age-worthy, and undeniably tied to its Atlantic heritage.