Wines Muscadet Sèvre et Maine Chéreau-Carré - Château de Chasseloir de St Fiacre - 2004

Château de Chasseloir de St Fiacre 2004 from Chereau Carré is a remarkable example of Muscadet-Sèvre-et-Maine, one of the Loire Valley’s most esteemed appellations for dry white wines. This cuvée is crafted primarily from the Melon de Bourgogne grape, a variety prized for its fresh acidity and subtle fruit character. The 2004 vintage showcases the benefits of extended ageing on its lees—a traditional technique in Muscadet that imparts extra texture, complexity, and a slight creaminess to the wine, while preserving its characteristic vibrancy. The result is a dry white with delicate aromatics, notes of citrus peel, green apple and faint white flowers, underpinned by a pleasing minerality and lingering freshness.

The Muscadet-Sèvre-et-Maine appellation lies within the larger Pays Nantais subregion in the western Loire, very close to the Atlantic coast. The climate here is cool and oceanic, ensuring a long growing season and helping grapes retain high acidity. The soils are a mix of gneiss, granite, and schist, which lend the wines their hallmark stony minerality. With a winemaking history dating back to the Roman era, this area is synonymous with Muscadet and has built its reputation on producing refreshing, food-friendly whites that age gracefully—as this 2004 vintage elegantly demonstrates.

This wine’s bracing acidity and subtle salinity make it a classic partner for seafood. Oysters, mussels marinière, or a platter of fresh shellfish highlight its saline edge. For a regional pairing, try it with Nantais recipes such as beurre blanc sauce over river fish, or a simple grilled sardine. Its nuanced, matured flavours also suit lightly spiced Asian cuisine—think tempura prawns or steamed dumplings—where the wine’s freshness can cut through richer profiles.

Serve Château de Chasseloir de St Fiacre 2004 slightly chilled, at around 10-12°C, to fully appreciate its complexity without muting its delicate aromatics. A gently shaped white wine glass will help focus the bouquet and support your appreciation of this Loire classic’s provenance and maturity.