Hi Everyone,

Recognize the above wine from last year?

Do you remember noting that there was a hard-to-put-a-finger-on floral component to the wine that made it subtly stand out? If so, there was a reason for that – Nico used an unusually high percentage of Muscadelle (30%) in this mineral-rich, nicely balanced (12.5% ABV) 2024 vintage Vieille Tour Blanc release.

The most overlooked white grape in Bordeaux, Muscadelle has no genetic relationship to Muscat despite its name – DNA research shows it to be a distinct variety without any clear parentage. Muscadelle is difficult and expensive to grow (prone to coulure and also low-yielding), and in opposition to the native-varietal renaissance we are seeing in Spain, Muscadelle plantings in Bordeaux are quickly disappearing across the entire region. Given the quality one can achieve with Muscadelle included in a Sauvignon/Semillon blend this surprises us, but Nico assured us that this grape “really is a pain to grow.”

If you loved the 2024, we have great news…

Following the unexpected closure of a distributor partner in Germany, Nico Boissonneau has an encore tranche of 2024 Vieille Tour Blanc to divvy out, again in wood box format. The Muscadelle factor makes this wine easy and fun to drink, and here is some useful press as well:

“Austere, with aromas of wet stones, green mangoes, peaches and an herbal touch. The palate is medium- to full-bodied, showing depth of fruit that leads to a creamy finish. Sauvignon blanc, muscadelle and semillon. From biodynamically grown grapes with Demeter certification. Screw cap. Drink now. 90 points.” – James Suckling 11/25

First come first serve.