Louise Chéreau ‘Katharos’ Muscadet Sans Soufre Ajouté 2020
Katharos means ‘purity’ in ancient Greek and the aim of this cuvée is to reveal the authentic aromas of the Melon de Bourgogne variety without the addition of any sulphur during vinification, which allows the aromatics to shine through. The grapes were pressed and fermented with carefully selected yeasts that would enable fermentation through to less than one gram of residual sugar. While this is made without the addition of sulphur, the yeasts do create some natural sulphur during fermentation, which is why the label reads ‘contains sulphites’. The wine did not go through malolactic conversion to retain the refreshing acidity. The gravity fed cellar enables the wine to be gently moved without the use of a pump and ageing took place in concrete tanks. Without the addition of sulphur, the wine is sensitive to oxidation, so bottling took place directly from the lees, using an inert bottling line to prevent oxidation. An outstanding expression of Muscadet showing great aromatic purity, with richness and length on the palate. The intense golden colour leads to exotic fruit aromas and notes of ripe, juicy pear. Beautifully balanced with aromatic freshness through to the deliciously persistent finish.
