Domaine de la Pépière, 2025 Update
Among the finest domaines of the Muscadet region, and one which I have been following with a semi-religious fervour for longer than I now care to remember, it is always a delight to catch up with Rémi Branger and Gwénaëlle Croix of Domaine de la Pépière. These two vignerons arrived here separately, their presence allowing the domaine’s founder, the much-admired Marc Ollivier, to then ease himself into retirement. The domaine has not only survived this transition, but has continued to flourish. Rémi and Gwénaëlle remain adherent to the entirely biodynamic philosophy Marc followed, while gently expanding the vineyard and the range of cuvées they offer.
On the occasion of this most recent meeting and tasting I was able to hear their thoughts on the 2024 and 2023 vintages, before tasting the traditional Muscadets originating from both years. In addition Rémi and Gwénaëlle shared news of a new vineyard acquisition, one which has resulted in the addition of a new (albeit probably temporary) cuvée to the portfolio of wines in the 2022 vintage. The new baby is named Le Repos du Mouton (so fans of the domaine will surely be able to guess the location of this new parcel), and I was able to taste the 2022, the inaugural release.
And, in news which will surely rock the world of Muscadet, a (rather smart) makeover for the Briords label….
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