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LE BRISEAU Patapon
LE BRISEAU Patapon
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$42.00 USD
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Le Briseau "Patapon" is a dynamic and expressive natural red wine from the Loire Valley, France, crafted by Nathalie Gaubicher under her Domaine Le Briseau label, now part of her Nana, Vins et Cie project. Made from 100% Pineau d’Aunis—a rare, aromatic red grape native to the region—it’s sourced from organically and biodynamically farmed vines grown on clay and silica soils over limestone in the Coteaux du Loir appellation. Though technically eligible for this designation, the wine is intentionally declassified to Vin de France, reflecting Gaubicher’s nonconformist spirit, embodied by the mischievous clown mascot "Patapon" on the label, whose motto is "Vigneron Non Conforme" (Non-Conforming Winemaker).
The winemaking process is hands-off and adaptive: hand-harvested grapes are foot-trodden, then undergo a semi-carbonic maceration lasting one to three weeks, with the proportion of whole clusters varying by vintage based on grape condition. Fermentation occurs spontaneously with native yeasts in vats, followed by about 10 months of aging in the same vessels. Bottled unfined and unfiltered, it receives a minimal sulfur addition (around 2g/hL, or roughly 20 mg/L total SO2) at bottling, preserving its vibrant, living character.
In the glass, "Patapon" pours a bright, translucent ruby. The nose is dreamy and perfumed, offering strawberry compote, violets, and red cherries, with subtle hints of black pepper and damp earth—hallmarks of Pineau d’Aunis. On the palate, it’s light-bodied and juicy, with mouthwatering acidity, soft tannins, and flavors of tart red fruit, a touch of chocolate, and a mineral-driven finish. At around 12-13% alcohol, it’s a quintessential "glou-glou" wine—eminently drinkable yet layered with personality.
Serve it slightly chilled at 14-16°C alongside charcuterie, grilled pork, or earthy dishes like mushroom tart. "Patapon" carries the legacy of Gaubicher and her late husband Christian Chaussard, a natural wine pioneer, blending Loire tradition with a rebellious edge. Drink it young to enjoy its vivid freshness and playful charm.
