The Estate
Formerly a 300 hectare property that was split up during the French Revolution, Château de la Gravelle now spans 15 hectares and is located in the town of Gorges, France in the heart of the Sèvre et Maine appellation. The estate, managed by Véronique Günther Chéreau, is home to buildings that date back to Louis XIII, including its classic windmill (featured on the bottle label) which is a typical feature of the Nantes region. The vineyards have a unique soil structure composed of volcanic rock (or gabbro), shale, and other sedimentary rock, a feature that gives the resulting wines their elegance and exceptional bouquet. Starting in 2010, the estate converted to an organic operation, and continues to employ organic methods to this day.
Map of Muscadet appellations
Muscadet Sèvre et Maine
Grape Variety: 100% Melon de Bourgogne. The Melon de Bourgogne was first planted in the Nantes area after the frost of 1709 that wiped out all of the vines in the region. This Burgundian grape variety has found its vocation by adapting wonderfully to the Nantes terroir.
Soil: The vineyard of the Château de la Gravelle has an uncommon terroir. Its subsoil is composed of a volcanic rock called gabbro which is covered with a 40 cm clay layer.
Vinification: The wine is vinified on lees. The lees are the result of a natural sedimentation during the winter. After the alcoholic fermentation, the wine rests on its lees, until the bottling at the end of March. It is giving roundness and complexity to the wine.
Yield: 50 hl/ha
Tasting Notes: This Muscadet is known for its young, lively, dry and fruity side and presents a light “perlant” so sought after by amateurs.
Food Pairings: Pairs very well with fish and shellfish, and also is excellent as an aperitif.
Serving Temperature: 12 °C
Cellaring: Minimum 4 years.
The volcanic rock soil of Chateau de la Gravelle