(MUSS-ka-DAY)
Synonyms: Melon de Bourgogne, Melon
Wine Name: Muscadet, Muscadet-Sèvre et Maine, Muscadet-Sèvre et Maine Sur Lies
Background: Muscadet is a crisp white, minerally wine produced near the mouth of the Loire River close to Nantes France and not found in many other areas of the world. Originally it was grown in the Burgundy region of France until it was ordered to be uprooted in the 18th century. Although the name means “musk-like” there is really no muskiness to the grape nor its wine at all and it is not related to Muscat or Muscadine wines. It is an acidic fresh wine slightly different than a Pinot Blanc with which it has been confused in the past. It can be a very neutral wine but often has hints of green apple and citrus fruits. Occasionally it has a hint of saltiness which complements any seafood dish and give it the classic pairing with oysters. Often this wine is kept on its lees (dead yeast and wine sediment) for months or years as Champagne is, giving it a slight toasty taste and creamy smoothness.
Classic Brands and Sources: France – Chéreau-Carré, Luc Choblet, l’Ecu, Pierre Luneau, Louis Métaireau, Ragotière.
Characteristics:
| Style #1 – typical from Loire Valley France
Body – light Acidity – high Sweetness – dry Tannins – low |
Wine and food pairing guidelines:
Pairs well with light, acidic dishes and especially seafood
Foods and Entrees that usually pair:
oysters, shrimp, scallops, fish, pork that are not breaded and have acidic sauces or just lemon
Cheese Pairings:
Boursin herbed, Brick, Derby, Feta (sheep’s milk), goat cheese, Gouda, Havarti, Majorero (Spanish hard goat cheese) Mahon, Bucheron (French goat cheese), dry Jack cheese, Cream, Neufchatel , Saint -Felicien (French cow;s milk cheese), Raclette, Pave Affinois