Domaine Gadais is a renowned winery located in the Loire Valley, specifically in the Muscadet region. The winery has a rich history that dates back to 1947 when Louis Gadais, the son of a gardener, decided to focus on wine production. Louis was passionate about creating exceptional wines and was one of the first winemakers in Nantes to bottle his wines instead of selling them in bulk to the cooperative.
The legacy continued with Louis’ sons, Michel and Marcel, who further developed the estate. The acquisition of prized land in La Faubretière in 1973 contributed to the improvement of wine quality. The winery’s commitment to low yields and international recognition from esteemed importers solidified its reputation as a producer of high-quality Muscadet wines.
In 1994, Christophe Gadais, having gained experience in Sancerre and abroad, took over the estate and diversified the production portfolio. Notable additions included the Grande Réserve des Moulins and the Vieilles Vignes cuvée, made from selected vineyards. In 2016, Pierre-Henri Gadais, great-grandson of Louis Gadais and Henri Bourgeois, returned to the estate after gaining innovative experience overseas.
Domaine Gadais takes pride in its unique terroir, situated at the southernmost point of the Armorican Massif, which boasts over ten different soil types. The geological diversity, including granite, gneiss, mica schist, amphibolite, and others, contributes to the richness and character of their wines. The vineyards benefit from the Atlantic Ocean’s salty air and the Loire River’s alluvial soils, creating a distinct regional identity.