Although it is not the only appellation contrôlée of the Pays Nantais, Muscadet Sur Lie is by far the best known. Gros Plant du Pays Nantais also produces crisp tangy white wines. Fiefs Vendéens and Coteaux d'Ancenis produce red and white wines but are little known outside their home.

Muscadet is named for the grape from which it is made rather than its place of origin. The Muscadet, also called the Melon de Bourgogne, was brought to the Loire centuries ago from Burgundy. It flourished in the Pays Nantais, producing wines that perfectly reflect their maritime environment, and which make a natural partner for the superlative Belon oysters of Brittany.

Muscadet is the largest white wine appellation in France. It includes Muscadet AOC and three regional appellations, Muscadet Sèvre et Maine, Muscadet Coteaux de la Loire and Muscadet Côtes de Grandlieu. Each winery must have its wines approved by an official tasting board before it can use the appellation.

Muscadet, which has been produced and aged in accordance with certain strict guidelines, may be designated "Muscadet Sur Lie." Keeping the wine in the barrel (on the lees or sur lie) all winter, allows the wine's aromas to develop, and carbonic gas produced by this process imparts a liveliness on the palate. Only wines made from the best vineyards are permitted to use the Sur Lie designation.


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