Chereau-Carre Vices & Vertus 'Orgueil' Brut, France

Fine streams of bubbles and bright citrus aromas define the 2020 Chereau-Carre Vices & Vertus 'Orgueil' Brut, a distinctive sparkling expression of Melon de Bourgogne that reimagines Muscadet through the lens of méthode traditionnelle winemaking. Crafted by Louise Chéreau from mature vines rooted in schist soils along the Maine River, the wine balances Loire Valley freshness with textural depth and mineral precision. As part of the innovative Vices & Vertus range, ‘Orgueil’ showcases a modern, artisanal interpretation of one of the region’s most historic grape varieties while honoring generations of family viticulture.

Product Details:

• Winemaker: Louise Chéreau
  
• Variety: 100% Melon de Bourgogne
  
• Wine Type: Sparkling Wine, Brut
  
• Alcohol: 12% ABV
  
• Farming: Ecologic
  
• Vineyard Site: Chasseloir
  
• Vine Age: 40–60 years
  
• Soil: Schist
  
• Fermentation: Underground cement tanks
  
• Secondary Fermentation: Méthode Traditionnelle
  
• Aging: 15 months sur latte
  
• Dosage: 5.7 g/L Brut
  
• Disgorgement: Hand disgorged on June 19, 2024
  
• Liqueur de Tirage: Produced from older vintage Comte Leloup Muscadet
  
• Vegan: Yes

Sensory Description:

Pale gold with persistent fine mousse, the wine opens with aromas of lemon zest, green apple, white peach, and fresh brioche layered over wet stone minerality. The palate is brisk and energetic, combining crisp orchard fruit with saline tension and delicate floral lift. Extended lees aging contributes subtle pastry and almond notes while preserving the wine’s vibrant freshness. The schist soils lend a pronounced mineral edge, carrying through a clean, precise finish marked by citrus peel, chalk, and refreshing acidity.

Winemaker’s Background:

Chereau-Carre is one of Muscadet’s historic family estates, based in Saint-Fiacre-sur-Maine in the Loire Valley. Under the direction of Louise Chéreau, the newest generation of the family has introduced the Vices & Vertus collection, a series of wines designed to explore fresh interpretations of traditional Loire varieties and terroirs. While deeply rooted in the heritage of Melon de Bourgogne and Muscadet production, Louise brings a contemporary, experimental approach to the estate, crafting wines that emphasize precision, sustainability, and authenticity. The Chasseloir vineyard, home to mature vines overlooking the Maine River, remains central to the estate’s identity and its pursuit of expressive, terroir-driven wines.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve chilled at 44–48°F in a tulip-shaped sparkling wine glass to highlight the wine’s aromatics and fine mousse. Excellent as an aperitif or paired with oysters, sushi, fresh chèvre, scallop crudo, tempura vegetables, or light seafood dishes. Its mineral tension and lively acidity also make it especially versatile alongside salty or fried foods.