Wines Unspecified Vignoble Bonnet-Huteau - Gorges - 2020

Viniou Reviews

Vignoble Bonnet-Huteau’s Cuvée Gorges 2020 is a dry white wine crafted in the Loire Valley, one of France’s most celebrated wine regions. The wine is produced from Melon de Bourgogne, the single authorised grape variety for the Muscadet area, especially from the prized Gorges cru. The 2020 vintage benefited from a relatively warm growing season, which promoted even ripening while retaining the hallmark freshness of the grape. The terroir in Gorges is defined by its gabbro soils—a coarse-grained volcanic rock—which gives the wine both texture and mineral complexity. Traditional vinification often includes prolonged sur lie ageing in underground vats, resulting in the wine’s creamy mouthfeel, subtle yeasty notes, and enhanced longevity.

The Loire Valley’s maritime climate is heavily influenced by the nearby Atlantic Ocean, with cool temperatures that help maintain acidity in white wines. The varied soils in this region are key to expressing distinctions within Muscadet; gabbro, as found in Gorges, particularly imparts a generous palate weight and a salty, stony finish. Historically, the area has been known for producing lively, delicately aromatic whites that shine with seafood, with the Gorges cru wines often considered the most structured and age-worthy.

This wine’s crisp, saline profile offers outstanding pairing possibilities. Classic Loire Valley pairings include freshly shucked oysters, mussels marinière or grilled langoustines, as the wine’s bracing acidity lifts the sweetness of shellfish and its savoury undertones echo the brininess of the sea. For a regional touch, serve with Muscadet-poached white fish, goat’s cheese tarts, or a simple salad of radishes and butter. Lighter poultry dishes and lemony vegetable risottos would also suit its invigorating style.

For optimal enjoyment, chill the Cuvée Gorges 2020 to 9-11°C before serving. Pour into tulip-shaped glasses to concentrate its subtle aromas of citrus, green apple and wet stone. The wine is drinking beautifully now but will also reward another few years’ patience in your cellar, revealing more complexity with time.