Domaine de la Pepiere Sevre et Maine Muscadet Sur Lie Muscat 2009

Bold and extroverted, this has an unusually ripe fruitiness while remaining firmly encased in a brisk structure, strongly marked by pungent aromas of oyster shells and crushed stones.

The hot new summertime white, Muscadet, hails from the mouth of the Loire River on the west coast of France, making it an excellent choice with any salty snack foods or light seafood dishes (especially shellfish), though it drinks really well on its own. Medium-bodied and crisp, but with a slight creaminess from the sur lie aging, the Pépière is a stellar alternative for Chardonnay drinkers looking for something less oaky, or Sauvignon Blanc drinkers looking for something with a little more kick!

The basic (but by no means simple) Pepiere 2009 Muscadet de Sevre et Maine Sur Lie is scented with green apple, lime, quarry dust, and a hint of elder flower. Low-key, soft to the touch for Muscadet, but highly refreshing; and tinged with citrus rind, crushed stone, and iodine, it finishes with mouth-watering persistence. I would plan to enjoy it over the next 18 months.

Light, bright straw. White flowers, lemon curd, orange peel and minerals on the nose. Vibrant, precise citrus and floral flavors are underscored by zesty minerals, which add clarity and tangy lift. Pure and brisk on the finish, which repeats the orange note. This surprisingly approachable wine reminds me a bit of chenin blanc.

The hot new summertime white, Muscadet, hails from the mouth of the Loire River on the west coast of France, making it an excellent choice with any salty snack foods or light seafood dishes (especially shellfish), though it drinks really well on its own. Medium-bodied and crisp, but with a slight creaminess from the sur lie aging, the Peacute;piegrave;re is a stellar alternative for Chardonnay drinkers looking for something less oaky, or Sauvignon Blanc drinkers looking for something with a little more kick!

Great, refeshing Muscadet with vibrant minerality. Of course, this is perfect for oysters, but with its good round body, it's also great with light poultry or vegetable dishes. From a Practicing Organic estate.