Terroir
Located in Gétigné, within the heart of the Muscadet region in the Loire Valley, Domaine de Bellevue is the brainchild of Jérôme Bretaudeau, who established the estate in 2001. The vineyards are characterized by diverse soils, notably granite and gabbro—a black igneous rock akin to basalt—which imparts a distinct mineral quality to the wines. This unique terroir, combined with the Atlantic influence, contributes to the freshness and complexity of the wines produced here.   
 
Viticulture
Domaine de Bellevue has been certified organic since 2012 and achieved biodynamic certification (Biodyvin) in 2020. Jérôme practices meticulous vineyard management, harvesting each plot based on vine age to capture the unique personality of each vine. His commitment to biodiversity and soil health ensures the vines thrive without synthetic interventions, reflecting a deep respect for nature and terroir.     
 
Winemaking
The 2022 Macération is crafted exclusively from Pinot Gris grapes. Post-harvest, the grapes undergo a 30-day skin maceration in vats, a technique that extracts color, tannins, and aromatic compounds, resulting in an orange wine with notable depth. Fermentation is driven by indigenous yeasts, and the wine is aged in a combination of amphorae and tuns, vessels that allow for gentle oxygen exchange, enhancing the wine’s texture and complexity. Minimal sulfur is added only at bottling, and the wine is neither fined nor filtered, preserving its authentic character.   
 
Tasting Notes
This orange wine presents a captivating hue between pink and orange, indicative of its extended skin contact. The nose offers an inviting blend of ripe citrus, green apple, delicate spice, and subtle herbal notes. On the palate, it is lively and structured, with flavors of zesty lemon, grapefruit, and a touch of red currant. The skin contact imparts a gentle tannic grip, leading to a clean, refreshing finish with lingering citrus and mineral nuances.       
 
Food Pairing
The Domaine de Bellevue Macération 2022 is a versatile companion to a variety of dishes. Its vibrant acidity and textured palate make it an excellent match for grilled fish, light pastas, vegetable dishes, and even meaty fish preparations. Its unique profile also complements tomato-based sauces and can stand up to mildly spiced dishes, making it a delightful choice for adventurous palates.