Domaine Batard Langelier Muscadet Polaris 20

The Loire Valley, often referred to as the "Garden of France," is one of the most diverse wine-producing regions in all of France, extending across the central and western parts of the country. The valley is divided into three primary regions based on geographical location and the variety of grapes grown.

The eastern Loire is known for Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir, particularly from the areas surrounding Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé. The central Loire focuses on the Chenin Blanc, Cabernet Franc, Gamay, and, to a lesser degree, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir.

The Western Loire Valley is primarily known for its production of white wines and differs significantly from its Eastern and Central counterparts. The region's proximity to the Atlantic coast results in a significant maritime influence, making it an ideal location for growing Melon de Bourgogne, the grape used to make Muscadet.

Muscadet is the most important white wine produced in the Western Loire, and it's pleasingly dry, wonderfully crisp, vibrant, and mineral-driven. Regrettably, the grape's name has led to some confusion among wine lovers. Contrary to what its name might suggest, wines made from Muscadet wines are bone-dry, with very little or no perceivable sweetness.

The grape's name is often confused with "Muscat," a sweet grape variety, or "Moscato," the sweet Italian wine. Sadly, many uninitiated wine lovers ignore Muscadet due to this awkward identity crisis, missing out on this unique and refreshing elixir.

Jeremie and Claire Batard-Langelier represent the third generation of winemakers, collaborating with Jeremie's parents to tirelessly promote the joy of Muscadet. Nestled southeast of Nantes in the Maisdon sur Sevre commune, within the Muscadet Sevre et Maine AOX, the family's vineyards meander across 24 organically farmed hectares.

The family is fortunate to farm vineyards with a tremendously diverse range of soil structures, including sandy loam, gabbros, gneiss, and biotite granite. This lucky combination of soil diversity and maritime influence is insanely ideal for growing Melon de Bourgogne.

With a nod to their fortunate terroir, 95% of their vineyards are planted to Melon de Bourgogne, now averaging at least 40 years of age. The remaining vineyard holdings are devoted to Merlot and Cabernet Franc, and like their Melon de Bourgogne, they're organically farmed using the "guyot Nantais" technique, a local method of vine training.

In your glass, Polaris Muscadet opens with persistently delicate aromas of green apple, pear, and white blossoms, all wrapped around a gorgeous whisper of sea breeze. Sip after sip offers a bright, refreshing palate with notes of citrus, stone fruit, and the characteristic minerality of the region. The finish lingers nicely with a slight touch of saline reminiscent of the Atlantic influence on the Western Loire vineyards.

Polaris Muscadet is just a smidge richer than your garden variety Muscadet, so I find it's an incredibly versatile companion to a multitude of cuisines. Of course, it will shine with shellfish and white-fleshed fish; however, it will also pair beautifully with lighter white meat dishes, non-grilled salmon and tuna, and any of your favorite poultry preparations.