Muscadet
Muscadet is a white French wine. It is made at the western end of the Loire Valley, near the city of Nantes in the Pays de la Loire region neighboring the Brittany Region. More Muscadet is produced than any other Loire wine. It is made from the Melon de Bourgogne grape, often referred to simply as melon. As a rule in France, Appellation d'origine contrôlée wines are named either after their growing region or after their variety (the latter in Alsace only). The name Muscadet is therefore an exception. The name seems to refer to a characteristic of the wine produced by the melon grape variety: vin qui a un goût musqué - 'wine with a musk-like taste'. Though wine expert Tom Stevenson notes that Muscadet wines do not have much, if any, "muskiness" or Muscat-like flavors or aromas. The sole variety used to produce Muscadet, Melon de Bourgogne, was initially planted in the region sometime in or before the 17th century. It became dominant after a hard freeze in 1709 killed most of the region's vines. Dutch traders who were major actors in the local wine trade encouraged the planting of this variety and distilled much of the wine produced into eau de vie for sale in Northern Europe.
Muscadet Properties:
| Food Property | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Flavor Profile | Sour | Muscadet typically has a refreshing and slightly acidic taste due to its natural high acidity. |
| Salty | Muscadet may have a subtle saline note, especially if it comes from vineyards located near the Atlantic coast. | |
| Texture | Dryness | Muscadet is known for its dry mouthfeel, making it a popular choice for pairing with seafood. |
| Nutritional Value | Macronutrients | Muscadet is low in calories and carbohydrates, making it a lighter option compared to other wines. |
| Color | Natural Pigments | Muscadet is usually a pale straw color with hints of green, showcasing its freshness and youthfulness. |
| Aroma | Volatile Compounds | Muscadet is known for its aromatic qualities, often displaying notes of citrus, green apple, and mineral tones. |
| Chemical Composition | Acidity/Alkalinity (pH) | Muscadet typically has a high acidity level, giving it a crisp and zesty character on the palate. |
Food Pairing App - Version 1.2.0