DOMAINE DES LOGES, Monnières
The family history of Domaine des Loges can be traced back to 1789. Initially, the family were farmers and winegrowers and the wine growing know-how was passed down from generation to generation. In 2013, brothers Gwenael and Benjamin inherited 26 hectares from their parents Maurice and Marie-Annick Barre. Since that time, the brothers have expanded their vineyard holdings to 41 hectares. Located in the heart of the Muscadet appellation around the village of Monnières. This is a wine region known for its soils of flints, sand, marl-limestone over clay which boasts a rich history for its bold flavours. The majority of the production is for Chardonnay, Sauvignon and Muscadet Sèvre et Maine sur lie.
The brothers are always on the lookout for new vinification and fermentation techniques. During the dormant season, cover crops of rye, vetch and red clover are planted between the rows and are subsequently ploughed into the soil which provides a natural fertilization for the vines, promotes soil life and combats erosion during the winter months. Most of the harvesting is done at night to keep the grapes fresh and preserve their delicate aromas. For certain grapes such as Sauvignon Blanc, skin maceration is carried out before pressing which ensures better extraction of the aromatic compounds. The pressing of the grapes is as gentle and controlled as possible which ensures optimum extraction of the juice, avoids premature oxidation and preserves the quality. After the pressing, the juice undergoes static cold settling where the must is cooled to help settle out any solid particles prior to fermentation. Fermentation takes place at low temperature which preserves the wine’s aromas and freshness.
The wines that the brothers produce are exceptional value. Delicate, intense aromas, great mouthfeel, varietally correct wines that pair exceptionally well with oysters, a mainstay of the local cuisine as well as other seafood such as lobster, shellfish and dense white fish, mullet and cod.
