Réserve du Chiron Muscadet-Sevre et Maine Sur Lie

Description

France's Loire Valley is home to some of the country's most distinctive wines. The extreme western sub-region of Nantes, home to the white wines of Muscadet Sèvre et Maine Sur Lie, is no exception. Don't be deterred by the tongue-twister of a name on these labels - 'Sèvre et Maine' is a nod to the two main rivers that flow through the region, and 'sur lie' a reference to the time the wine spends sitting on lees (the spent yeast cells from fermentation). As for Muscadet? It's not actually the name of the grape used, despite its similarity to Muscat – but is in fact thought to be a reference to the character of the region's wines. All Muscadet is made from a grape called Melon de Bourgogne. In contrast to their labels, the region's wines are refreshingly uncomplicated. These are food wines to the core, with straightforward flavours that complement rather than clash with the region's cuisine. The extended lees contact adds some texture and weight, but the hallmark is clean, bracing acidity that pairs beautifully with seafood and makes for a perfect aperitif wine. Enjoy over the next 2 years at a well-chilled 6 C.

Pairing

Moules Frites (mussels cooked in white wine and shallots, served with fries) is a classic Muscadet pairing, but this would work equally well with just about any seafood, from fresh oysters to poached halibut.