Domaine de l’Ecu Orthogneiss 2023

Domaine de l'Ecu lies near Nantes in the Muscadet Sèvre et Maine appellation of the Loire, where Guy Bossard pioneered organic farming from 1975 and biodynamics from 1998; the fifth generation now works the 25 hectares of family vines. Orthogneiss is a metamorphic rock, and this cuvée is named for it because the vines grow on that geology, one of several soil types Bossard bottles separately to show how bedrock shapes the wine. Melon de Bourgogne is a naturally neutral, high acid grape, which makes it a clear vehicle for terroir and lees work. The wine is aged sur lie, resting on its spent yeast through the winter, a traditional Muscadet method that adds a fine texture, a gentle prickle and a savoury, bready depth while protecting the wine without oak. The colour is pale with green glints. The nose is restrained, giving lemon, green apple and white flowers over a distinct wet stone and brine note. The palate is bone dry and mineral, with citrus and a salty grip framed by taut acidity and a whisper of lees texture on a clean finish. Serve well chilled at 8 to 10 degrees.