Domaine de l'Ecu Muscadet "Classic" 2020
(Loire Valley, France) - [JG 91]

About The Winery:
The domaine is located in the hamlet of Le Landreau in Sèvre et Maine, Muscadet's best region of production. They have 17 hectares (42 acres), with vines averaging 55 years old. They produce 3 different cuvees, each masterfully crafted to highlight the expression of the specific soil types. The wines are fermented "sur lie", on the yeast, to prevent oxidation and impart full flavor and a slight spritz to the finished product.

Tasting Notes:
It is crystal clear and the color of yellow straw. Lime, grapefruit, white fruits, pear and apple, salty and citrus notes are generously present on the nose. The mouth is rich, straight, providing a beautiful acid screen; lime and soft notes of the sea provide a good balance and a great freshness in this Muscadet, superb landmarks which stretch to the end.

Food Pairing:
This Muscadet would be a good accompaniment to a seafood platter, an oily fish, a white meat or would, of course, be the ideal companion to your aperitif.

Technical Information

Appellation: Muscadet de Sevre and Maine on lees
Wine Type: White
Varietal: 100% Melon de Bourgogne
Age of vines: 30-35 years
Agricultural Practices: Organic
Certifications: Ecocert
Soil type: siliceous with metamorphic rock subsoil
Vinification: Hand harvested. No pumps, no racking of the must. Pneumatic pressing. 100% natural yeast fermentation. Aged on the lees in underground vats covered with glass tiles for 14 months.

Ratings & Reviews

91 Points - John Gilman:
"The Muscadet "Classic" bottling from Domaine de l’Ecu is the estate’s young vine cuvée. The 2020 version delivers superb aromatic complexity in its blend of breadfruit, a hint of pear, beautiful leesy elements that show sweetly nutty in tone, salty minerality and a topnote of dried flowers. On the palate the wine is full-bodied, focused, complex and nicely balanced, with a good core, fine mineral drive and bounce, zesty acids and a long, wide open and classy finish. This is a beautiful entry level Muscadet. 2021-2035."

90 Points - Wine Spectator (2018 Vintage):
"Charming, with a generous profile, exhibiting notes of pear, accented by hints of white pepper and coriander. A salty detail lingers on the persistent, mouthwatering finish. Drink now through 2023. 3,000 cases made, 500 cases imported." - AZ (12/2019)

90 Points - Wine Enthusiast (2018 Vintage):
"From a vineyard that has been biodynamic since 1998, this is a ripe, fruit-driven and pure wine. Its acidity, apple and citrus flavors and touch of minerality give both freshness and good texture. Drink the wine now." - Roger Voss (10/2019)