Gadais Père & Fils La Grande Réserve du Moulin Muscadet Sèvre-et-Maine Sur Lie 2019

Winery Background and History

Established in 1952, Domaine Gadais Père & Fils is situated in Saint-Fiacre, within the Muscadet Sèvre et Maine appellation of France’s Loire Valley. Founder Louis Gadais was a pioneer in bottling and selling his own wine, a tradition continued by his sons Marcel and Michel from 1959. The estate spans over 50 hectares, exclusively cultivating Melon de Bourgogne grapes. Committed to sustainable agriculture, the Gadais family emphasizes minimal intervention to preserve the authenticity of their wines. 

Producer and Winemaker

Currently, the Gadais family oversees the estate, maintaining a legacy of quality and tradition. Their expertise in cultivating Melon de Bourgogne and producing Muscadet wines has earned them recognition both locally and internationally. The family’s dedication to sustainable practices ensures the production of authentic wines that reflect their unique terroir. 

Vineyards and Microclimate

The estate’s vineyards are located on steep slopes overlooking the Sèvre and Maine rivers, characterized by orthogneiss soils. This terroir contributes to the subtle and delicate nature of their Muscadet wines. The cool, maritime climate of the Loire Valley, combined with these unique soil compositions, provides ideal conditions for growing Melon de Bourgogne, resulting in wines with pronounced minerality and freshness. 

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

100% Melon de Bourgogne.

Vinification & Aging Methods

The grapes are harvested and vinified using gravity-fed methods to respect the integrity of the fruit. The wine is aged sur lie (on the lees) for a minimum of six months, a traditional practice in the Nantes region. This process enhances the wine’s richness, harmony, and imparts a subtle minerality, resulting in a silky texture and freshness. 

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

Approximately 12%.

Tasting Notes

This Muscadet exhibits crisp, flinty notes with a hint of yeasty lees on the nose. The palate is fresh and ripe with great flavor, showcasing a silky texture and subtle minerality. The wine’s freshness and unmistakable silky texture make it an ideal accompaniment to all types of fish, shellfish, and crustaceans. 

Food & Wine Pairing

The wine pairs excellently with shellfish on ice or any grilled fish. Its fresh and ripe flavor profile also complements soft cheeses or goat cheese. The crisp acidity and subtle minerality enhance the flavors of seafood dishes, making it a versatile choice for various culinary delights. 

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve chilled at 8-10°C (46-50°F) to fully appreciate its freshness and aromatic profile. Using a white wine glass will help concentrate the aromas and enhance the tasting experience. Proper serving temperature and glassware choice are essential to highlight the wine’s delicate flavors and textures.

Storage and Aging Potential

While this Muscadet is delightful when enjoyed young, it can develop additional complexity with short-term aging. When stored in optimal conditions—cool, dark, and with a consistent temperature—it can age gracefully for up to 3-5 years, allowing the development of more nuanced flavors and a richer mouthfeel.