Muscadet beyond oysters: pairing ideas
While we have been singing the praises of Muscadet and oysters as a match made in heaven, we should also mention that this refreshing white wine from the Loire Valley pairs just as wonderfully with many other foods.
Of course, a product of the maritime climate in Pays Nantais, Muscadet with its refreshing acidity is a delicious accompaniment for other seafood, such as lobster, shrimp and crab. It also pairs nicely with sushi and sashimi. Because of its freshness, Muscadet is a fantastic wine choice for vegetarian cuisine, including citrus fruits and grilled fresh vegetables.
Beurre blanc , a blend of butter, shallots and a reduction of vinegar and dry white wine, originated in the Nantais – and Muscadet is traditionally the white wine used in the recipe. Accordingly, the wine is the most obvious match for anything cooked in beurre blanc, such as a filet of a white-fleshed fish, asparagus, artichokes or any other grilled vegetables.
Muscadets with sur lie aging have an added level of complexity, developing a yeasty, fresh-bread flavor that makes the wine an ideal cheese pairing. Goat cheeses match particularly well, soft and hard, depending on the individual wine’s flavor profile. Tomme de chevre de Muscadet is a local Loire goat cheese that is washed in Muscadet wine as it ages. It has a funky smell, yet a smooth, sweet flavor. It can be found in specialty cheese shops throughout the US.
Lastly, we can’t overlook the simple enjoyment of Muscadet on its own as an aperitif – or with some salted nuts to complement the influence of the sea that can be tasted in the wine.