The 2018 Muscadet Sèvre-et-Maine Sur Lie is a classic white wine hailing from the Pays Nantais, the westernmost part of the Loire Valley in France. Crafted exclusively from the Melon de Bourgogne grape, this wine is beautifully expressive of its terroir. The “Sur Lie” designation means that the wine has been aged on its lees, the spent yeast cells left after fermentation, which imparts additional complexity, texture and a subtle, bready richness that complements its natural brightness. The 2018 vintage benefited from warm and balanced weather, lending ripeness to the fruit while preserving a signature crisp acidity.
The Muscadet region, bordering the Atlantic Ocean, is known for its mild maritime climate and unique soils dominated by gneiss, granite, and schist. These stony, well-draining soils give the wines their characteristic minerality and saline freshness. Viticulture in this area dates back to the Roman era, and Muscadet has long been celebrated as a quintessential wine for pairing with the bounty of the sea, a tradition rooted in the local cuisine.
This Muscadet Sèvre-et-Maine Sur Lie would make a superb partner for classic dishes such as freshly shucked oysters, Atlantic mussels cooked in white wine and shallots (moules marinières), or grilled sardines with herbs. Its crisp acidity and subtle leesy notes also complement goat’s cheese, sushi or even light fish and chips. For a regional pairing, try it with a fresh Loire river fish like pike-perch, simply poached or lightly grilled.
When serving this wine, chill it to 8-10°C to accentuate its freshness and lively aromatics. If possible, open the bottle just before pouring to preserve its zesty vibrancy, and use tulip-shaped white wine glasses to concentrate its delicate aromas of citrus, green apple and wet stones. Enjoy this Muscadet within the next few years to fully appreciate its youthful energy and the nuances of its Sur Lie ageing.
