Why it matters
The producer
Château Haut-Mouleyre is an estate in Escoussans, near Cadillac, on the right bank of the Garonne River. Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are the primary varieties cultivated in its vineyards. The estate also produces Haut-Mouleyre Crémant de Bordeaux, a sparkling wine made by the traditional method from manually harvested Sémillon and Merlot.
Château Haut-Mouleyre operates under Crus et Domaines de France, part of Les Grands Chais de France. Its wines cover both Bordeaux red grape cultivation and a sparkling cuvée built from two regional varieties.
Place and vineyards
Where the wines begin
Escoussans lies near Cadillac on the right bank of the Garonne River. The vineyards occupy hillsides facing south and southwest, where abundant sunshine gives the vines long periods of direct light. For Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, that exposure can help fruit reach full ripeness.
The vineyard plots contain varied soil compositions. Different soils can change how vines receive and retain water, contributing different characteristics to wines from the same estate.
Wines to know
The range in view
Haut-Mouleyre Crémant de Bordeaux is the named sparkling bottle. It combines Sémillon and Merlot, with both grapes harvested manually. Traditional method means a second fermentation takes place in the bottle, creating the bubbles within the finished wine.
The Crémant has 12% alcohol by volume and a fruity profile marked by yellow apples, herbs, crackers, honey, peach and grapefruit. A creamy mousse balances the acidity, giving the palate a smooth, clean finish.