Muscadet is a wine, a grape, and a French wine region located within the Loire Valley. Spreading inland for about 50 miles from the Atlantic coast, all wine in this region is made from the Muscadet grape, also sometimes referred to as "Melon de Bourgogne." But as with any wine, not all Muscadet is created equal.

First off, Muscadet is a white wine. In its perfect form, it is light and dry. But because it is produced by the jug load, it tends to have a bad reputation. It is often criticized for tasting "steely." However, quality producers will often let their Muscadet "rest on its lees," a term which means the wine is allowed to sit with its dead yeast cells for some time after fermentation. This results in a richer quality, and a Muscadet well worth enjoying. Muscadets that have been so treated will clearly read "Sur Lie" on their label.

Healthier Grapes Make Muscadet Shine

Organic farming techniques also go a long way to making Muscadet the finest wine it can possibly be. Organic farming focuses on the soil health, and resulting grape health. Healthy Muscadet grapes taste their best, with extra fruity zest and a pleasing tartness that's considered quite refreshing.

Because Muscadet, in general, is produced in such enormous quantities, even fine organic, Sur Lie Muscadets are affordable. The finest examples can often be found for under $15.00. Muscadet is excellently paired with fish, shellfish and oysters, and should always be served at a nice cool temperature, around 50 to 55 degrees.