Muscadet Sèvre et Maine
Muscadet Sèvre et Maine is the largest and most important sub-appellation of the Muscadet region located at the western end of the Loire Valley in France, situated around the confluence of the Sèvre and Maine rivers near the Atlantic coast. The terroir features maritime climate influences, with moderately mild temperatures and sufficient rainfall, along with predominantly granitic, gneiss, and schist soils that contribute to the wines' distinctive mineral character. This subregion exclusively produces white wines from the Melon de Bourgogne grape variety, known for their crisp acidity, citrus and green apple notes, and saline minerality, with the finest examples being aged 'sur lie' (on the lees) for added complexity and texture.
Wines from Muscadet Sèvre et Maine
La Boutanche Melon
La Boutanche is the brainchild of importer Selection Massale, who convinced top natural winemakers to create affordable, everyday wines in funky one-liter bottles – because sometimes 750ml just isn't enough. This particular edition features Melon de Bourgogne, the grape behind Muscadet, made by a producer who clearly knows what they're doing but prefers to let the wine speak for itself. Made with minimal intervention and a focus on pure fruit expression, this is the kind of refreshing, honest wine that disappears from your glass at an alarming rate. The liter format makes it perfect for sharing, though you might be tempted not to. It's the wine equivalent of that cool indie band you discovered before they got famous – approachable enough for everyone to enjoy but with enough character to keep the wine geeks interested. Perfect for picnics, seafood feasts, or Tuesday nights when you deserve more than just one glass but less than a hangover.
Mary Taylor Muscadet Sevre et Maine Sur Lie
Mary Taylor's Muscadet Sèvre et Maine Sur Lie represents one of the Loire Valley's most distinctive white wine styles – and quite possibly the world's perfect oyster wine. The 'sur lie' designation means the wine was aged on its lees (spent yeast cells), adding subtle complexity and texture to this refreshing coastal wine. Produced from the Melon de Bourgogne grape in vineyards near the Atlantic, this wine captures the maritime influence that makes Muscadet so special. The region's granite and schist soils impart a distinctive mineral character that perfectly complements the bright fruit notes. Mary Taylor partners with small growers committed to traditional methods, ensuring an authentic expression of this classic Loire style. It's the kind of honest, terroir-driven wine that locals have been enjoying with seafood for generations – unpretentious yet undeniably distinctive. Perfect for when you want a wine that speaks clearly of its origin without shouting.
Mary Taylor (Delaunay) Muscadet Sevre et Maine Sur Lie
This Muscadet Sèvre et Maine Sur Lie is a classic expression of the Loire Valley's signature white wine. Aged on its lees ('sur lie'), which adds complexity and a slight creamy texture while maintaining the wine's refreshing acidity and minerality.