DOMAINE DE L’ECU ANGE 2018

Wine Insight

Many feel that Domaine de l'Ecu (along with a very small group of other domaines, of course) is to thank for what Muscadet is today. The domaine's influence can be attributed to three main factors; Early adoption of organic viticulture in the Loire, well before it was fashionable to do so. The vineyards of Domaine de l'Ecu have been certified Organic for over 40 years and certified Biodynamic for over 20 years.

A Stong belief in the unique terroirs of Muscadet that inspired vinification and bottling based on soil type, as opposed to appellation blends. Thus was born the famed terroir wines from the subsoils of Gneiss, Orthogneiss and Granite.

Unlike most regular Muscadet, the wines are aged sur-lie for 15-18 months, resulting in a texture and layered complexity that have come to define the unique style of Domaine de l'Ecu Muscadets and set them apart from other wines in the appellation. In fact, some Loire cogni scenti have argued that Domaine de l'Ecu should be its own appellation - like Chateau Grillet, for example - due to the singularity of the wines.

Besides these factors, there are a series of non-negotiable "house rules" that apply to all the wines at Domaine de L'Ecu: working the soils, harvesting by hand, fermenting with indigenous yeast, avoiding pumping or racking of the must (only gravity), and minimal use of sulfur. All in all, it is a philosophy of "no make-up"; just true wines without adulteration or artifice.

"In the glass, the wine shimmers a highly concentrated ruby red with pink reflections along the outer edge. There are almost too many fruit and floral components to note here. Highly perfumed aromas of bing cherry, black raspberry, rose petal, fresh lavender, lilac, red plum, and wild strawberry all openly embrace a core of crushed flint, white pepper, and wild mushrooms. The palate is medium-bodied with firm, yet delicate, tannins that are accompanied with a balancing layer of acidity which perfectly frames the wines core."

Pairs Well With:
Garlic and Herb Roasted Pork Tenderloin

Sounds Like:
Childish Gambino - This is America