Domaine de la Pépière, Sèvre et Maine (Loire Valley, France) Muscadet 2018

 This is a refreshing white from vineyards in the Pays Nantais — where the Loire River empties into the Atlantic Ocean.  The Sèvre et Maine district is the best growing area in the wider Muscadet region.  The Domaine de la Pépière is a top estate for Muscadet production.  Their organically grown vines are planted in sandy, granitic soils and they purchase a small amount of fruit for this bottling from their neighbors.  The result is a Muscadet with a bit more richness and roundness than the norm.  The 2018 La Pépie Muscadet has an attractive bouquet of lemon zest, pear, fresh-bread yeast and delicate flowers.  Clean and lively on the palate, the ripe citrus and pear fruits are enhanced by the yeasty richness and a crisp and dry finish.  It’s a perfect wine to pair with fresh seafood dishes.