Catherine and François in Vallet: a family estate in the heart of Muscadet
The Huteau Boulanger winery was founded by Catherine and François in the middle of the Muscadet Sèvre et Maine growing region, at the western end of the Loire Valley. The headquarters is Vallet. There, the family also runs the Domaine du Moulin Camus, a Muscadet estate that describes itself as a family business. Some wines are therefore marketed under the double name Moulin Camus – Huteau Boulanger.
François Boulanger cultivates some of the oldest vine stocks in the appellation. Thus, the estate stands for a Muscadet that shows origin and vine age and wants to be more than just a neutral glass of wine.
Ripe grapes, wild yeasts, long rest on the fine lees
The working method can be seen in the Muscadet Sèvre et Maine sur Lie “La Muse”. The grapes are harvested fully ripe and sorted, then gently pressed in a pneumatic press. Alcoholic fermentation starts with the yeasts that naturally sit on the grapes. Subsequently, the wine matures for six to twelve months on the fine lees in underground glass tanks.
With the Clos Perraud, the estate goes even further. It comes from a single site with vines that are older than 50 years and lies on the lees for 18 months. This time gives the wine texture and depth without losing its freshness.
Salty freshness with texture: the style of Huteau Boulanger
All white wines of the estate come from the Melon de Bourgogne grape variety, which came to the Loire from Burgundy in the 17th century. The Clos Perraud appears pale golden in the glass with green reflections. On the nose, there are lemon zest and grapefruit, accompanied by exotic notes and a fine floral touch. On the palate, it feels creamy, the fruit remains clear, and the acidity is lively. The finish is dry, mineral, and slightly salty.
Oysters, mussels, and other seafood pair well with this style. Grilled sea bass or a fresh goat cheese also work well. According to the estate, the range extends beyond white wine and also includes red, rosé, and sparkling wine. The focus remains on the Muscadet from Vallet. If you only know it as a light accompaniment to seafood, this producer will show you a denser side of the wine.
