Château de la Ragotière Muscadet Sèvre Et Maine Sur Lie Black Label 2004

Muscadet may not be on your wine radar, yet. But this Loire Valley appellation is growing in popularity due to its unique qualities and excellent value.

Ragotière's 60+ acres of muscadet vineyards are located near where the Sèvre and Maine rivers converge into the Loire, before flowing to the nearby sea.

Owned by the three Couillaud brothers, Ragotière Muscadet Sèvre Et Maine 2004 was bottled directly off the lees (yeast bodies), without racking, allowing trace amounts of carbon dioxide to remain. This black label bottling is the top quality of the three Ragotière muscadets. Tasting Notes. Color: Pale straw with a greenish tint. Aromas: Citrus and minerals. On the tongue, this wine is light and tart, with lime and green herbal flavors that come across a bit salty, with a hint of capers present. The finish is palate cleansing and refreshing. Closure: Real cork. Excellent value ($11). Food pairing: Traditionally shellfish.

My current favorite pairing is with lightly salted Kettle potato chips.

Imported by Vineyard Brands of Birmingham, Alabama.