Region: Muscadet Sèvre et Maine sur lie, Loire, France

Varietal: 100% Melon de Bourgogne

Tasting notes: The old vines here do give some concentration. More importantly, they give a great swathe of ripe fruit that is so crisp and refreshing. Pretty nose of jasmine, honeysuckle, peaches and fresh pears. Crushed shells, too. Light-to medium-bodied with crisp acidity and a fresh, fruity palate. Flavorful, textured finish. 

Producer: Built by the noble Loré de la Ragotière family in the 14th century, Château de la Ragotière was purchased in 1979 by brothers Bernard, Francois, and Michel Couillaud. After acquiring the property, the brothers discovered an old cellar in the chapel housing vintages dating back to 1947. The Couillaud brothers strive to carry on the tradition of making high quality, long-lasting Muscadets and are today joined by the new generation: Amélie, daughter of Bernard, and her husband, Vincent Dugué.

Vineyard and Winemaking: The Sèvre and Maine rivers converge and flow into the Loire river just before it meets the sea at the border of Brittany, creating the richest vineyard land in Muscadet. Ragotière’s holdings consist of 55 hectares including 25 hectars of the finest Muscadet vineyards in the Appellation Muscadet de Sevre et Maine, with the vines averaging over 25 years of age.