Domaine de la Fruitière - Val de Loire Chardonnay 2022

Famille Lieubeau farms over 40 hectares of vines and produces Muscadet Sèvre et Maine, and Vin de Pays from grapes such as Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. Regardless of the varietal, the vines are planted on rock, and in most cases, sheer cliffs of rock through which the roots have to bury for meters for any hydric source. The vines, and the wines, are fed by water that is awash in wet rock. It’s not a big shock that the wines smell and taste more like rock and minerals than fruit or flowers. Combine this with the cold Atlantic breezes, and you’ve got an amazing cool climate, high cut, precise bottle of white wine.

The Lieubeau family takes great care to vinify the wines according to exposition, the density of the bedrock, and harvest date. Farming for their Folle Blanche, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon is certified and all of their Melon is now certified organic by Agriculture Biologique. They keep yields as low as possible to produce wines that express the varietal character and terroir – not just acid. These are delicious, vibrant wines that are easily among the best values in the portfolio.

This is hand-harvested, low yield Chardonnay that grows on the famous granite of Clisson. In this parcel, there is virtually no dirt present, just meters and meters of crushed rock.  Vilification is simple:  4 months in tank with no stirring. Aged for 6-9 months in tank (85%) and neutral French oak barrels (15%). The boys at Domaine de la Fruitière prefer minimal manipulation and like to let the wine do the talking.  This is Muscadet’s answer to village Burgundy at a third the price.

This is a delicious vibrant wine that offers great value.

Producer: Domaine de la Fruitière

Country: France

Region: Loire Valley

Varietal: Chardonnay

Appellation: Val de Loire

Vintage: 2022

Size: 750ml