Terroir: The grapes for this cuvée thrive on the earliest-ripening slopes of the estate, which overlook the picturesque banks of the Sèvre river. The vines feature an average age of 25 years, ranging from 15 to 35 years depending on the specific parcel. The shallow, stony soil is predominantly composed of gneiss bedrock, forcing the roots to extract a deep mineral character.
Winemaker and vineyard: The historic Domaine de la Haute Févrie is located approximately 18 kilometers southeast of Nantes, at the very heart of the Muscadet Sèvre et Maine appellation. The Branger family has been cultivating these vineyards for four generations with artisanal precision. Today, Sébastien and Baptiste Branger manage the 26-hectare estate, which is highly regarded for its terroir-driven, site-specific wines.
Manufacturing: The grapes are entirely harvested by hand to ensure a strict quality selection directly in the vineyard. After gentle direct pressing, cold settling of the must is carried out for 18 to 24 hours. The alcoholic fermentation is performed under strict temperature control between 16 and 18 degrees Celsius in traditional underground tanks. The wine then ages on its fine lees for 7 months according to local tradition before being bottled in spring.
Tasting: In the glass, the wine shows a bright, pale straw color with subtle silver reflections. The expressive bouquet reveals vibrant aromas of zesty grapefruit, crisp green apple, and white blossoms, complemented by a delicate touch of brioche from the lees. On the palate, it proves wonderfully fresh and linear, exhibiting a juicy fruit structure and the classic light sparkle. The finish is long, balanced, and marked by a distinct, briny, and salty mineral tension.
Serving recommendation & aging potential: This dry white wine unfolds its full aromatic spectrum when served at a cool temperature of 8 to 10 degrees Celsius. It represents the ultimate culinary pairing for fresh oysters, mixed shellfish, grilled sea fish, or light summer salads. The 2025 vintage offers great immediate drinking pleasure in its youth but can easily be cellared for 2 to 3 years.
Awards & environmental certifications: The estate has long followed a rigorous sustainable philosophy and farms all its vineyards organically. The domain holds the official organic farming certification with the European green leaf eco-label. The consistency of their artisanal quality is regularly honored with high scores in leading wine publications like the renowned Revue du Vin de France.