Muscadet is one of the most widely recognised names in wine - but mostly as a source of cheap, industrially made white. In recent years, a group of ambitious producers have begun to change its image - redefining Muscadet as a serious wine of place. With natural freshness and minerality, and a Chardonnay-like ability to reveal differences in vineyards a few metres apart, these high quality wines are closer to top Chablis than the Muscadet of the past.
Thomas Foubert of La Ferme des Confluences is at the heart of the region and the drive for quality. He took on his 10 hectares of vines in 2022, situated on some of Muscadet’s finest terroirs, between the banks of the Sèvre and Maine rivers.
Like other Burgundy-inspired locals, Thomas aims to make wines that express their terroir through careful farming. As much work as possible is done by hand, and the vineyards are certified organic. Thanks to the high quality of the fruit, he can keep winemaking simple, with wild yeast fermentations and low sulphur additions. Lees ageing takes place in a mix of vessels, including concrete, stainless steel, fibreglass tanks and barrel.
La Ferme des Confluences is a relatively new project, but it is emblematic of Muscadet’s exciting new trajectory. The wines are beautifully made, combining saline minerality with a depth that reveals the nuances of their terroir. The comparison with Chablis is apt, and in that context these wines offer wonderful value. For lovers of mineral whites, La Ferme des Confluences is one of France’s most exciting new prospects.
