The story of Les Frères Couillaud is one of bold vision and dedication, beginning in 1978 when the three brothers acquired Château de la Ragotière, a medieval estate dating back to the 14th century, complete with remnants of moats, an original stone gateway and a restored chapel. Their philosophy combines deep respect for the terroir with ecological viticulture and continuous innovation: from Terra Vitis certification and organic conversion to experimental plantings of disease‑resistant varieties such as Muscaris, Floréal, Voltis and Sauvignac. Winemaking focuses on precise berry‑ripeness assessment, gentle pressing, cold settling and long ageing on lees in underground glass‑lined tanks, amphorae and oak barrels. The new generation — Amélie and Vincent — continues to shape the estate’s future, blending tradition, biodiversity and forward‑thinking techniques to craft wines that embody the elegance, freshness and unique character of the Ragotière terroir.

Winemaking

This wine is produced in the Loire Valley near the Atlantic, in the canton of Vallet, on a southwest‑facing parcel with granite soils. The vineyard is farmed sustainably and has been TERRA VITIS certified since 2002. The 40‑year‑old vines are trained in simple Guyot with yields of 35 hl/ha. Harvest takes place in September using mechanical picking with sorting table, crusher and destemmer. Pneumatic pressing is followed by cold settling, then temperature‑controlled alcoholic fermentation and 10 months of ageing on fine lees in underground glass‑lined tanks. Bottling occurs after natural cold stabilization.

Tasting notes

The nose is broad and mineral with menthol notes; the palate is rich and supple with lightly toasted nuances, and the finish stands out with its iodized character.

Food pairing

The wine pairs beautifully with scallop carpaccio, langoustine tartare, sushi and grilled fish, and is also excellent as an aperitif. It can be enjoyed now or cellared for 3–5 years.