2024 Domaine de l'Olivier Grenaudiere Muscadet Sevre et Maine Sur Lie, Loire Valley

Vivid and focused, showing lemons, apples and baking spices. Medium-bodied and crunchy with delicious apple character on the palate and a flavorful finish. Drink now.

91 points James Suckling 

Right down near the Atlantic, where the Loire meets the sea, Muscadet has long been one of France’s great understated whites, and Domaine de la Grenaudière captures that coastal freshness beautifully. Family run and rooted in the Sèvre et Maine appellation, the estate works vineyards planted on schist and gneiss soils, farming with a focus on purity and letting Melon de Bourgogne speak clearly.

The sur lie ageing is key here, the wine resting on its lees through winter to build texture while keeping its natural brightness. Aromatically it is all about freshness, lemon and lime zest, green apple and a subtle hint of pear. There is a distinct saline edge, almost like sea spray, along with a faint yeasty note from the lees that adds a touch of complexity.

On the palate it is light to medium bodied, with crisp, mouth watering acidity giving it real energy. Citrus and orchard fruit carry through cleanly, supported by a gentle roundness from the lees contact. The finish is dry, mineral and quietly persistent, with that classic Muscadet salty flick.

Winemaking is simple and precise, stainless steel fermentation followed by time on lees, no overt oak, just a focus on freshness, texture and clarity.

This is made for seafood in all its forms. Fresh oysters are the obvious match, but it also shines with mussels, prawns or a simple grilled fish with lemon. It works just as well with lighter dishes where freshness is key.

Best enjoyed in its youth while that crisp, coastal character is front and centre, offering a pure, refreshing expression of Muscadet.