Lovely Loire Valley Whites

Barramundays Wine & Vinyl
The Garden of France..

White Wines of the Loire Valley, France
MUSCADET vs SANCERRE vs VOUVRAY

The Loire Valley wine region comprises 310 square miles, starting just West of the Atlantic Ocean, and stretching along the banks of the Loire River. A great abundance of crops are grown within its boundaries, including cherries, asparagus, and artichokes, as well as grapes, of course! An area full of gorgeous chateaux, cathedrals, and ancient villages, part of the central Loire River Valley has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Within this verdant region, a huge variety of wines are produced, 75% of them white. The reds are pretty great as well, but tonight we will taste three of the main white varieties, all very different from each other, but all with certain similarities as well: a crisp fruitiness and great balance.

Muscadet:
100% Melon de Bourgogne, grown in vineyards not far from the Atlantic Ocean, this wine is bone dry and refreshing, occasionally with a touch of salinity and minerality to complement the apple and citrus aromas. Often aged "on its lees" to enhance flavor and mouthfeel. (Lees are the solid particles left after fermentation). Perfectly paired with fruits de mer.

Sancerre:
Wines have been made in this part of France since at least the 6th century. This Sauvignon Blanc has more restrained fruit than its New World counterparts. What sets these vineyards apart is arguable the soil: whether chalk, gravel & limestone, or flint, it has a big influence on a Sancerre's aromas, and creates a counterpoint to the typical citrus and especially grapefruit flavors. Delicious with goat cheese.

Vouvray:
This versatile grape (Chenin Blanc) is capable of making very dry still and sparkling wines, as well as excellent off dry or sweet desert wines, the latter incorporating "noble rot", in the style of Sauternes. The most remarkable characteristic of this wine lies in the balance between residual sugar and its natural high acidity. These two factors result in "percieved" sweetness: a sweeter Vouvray may not seem so, due to the highly acidic counterpoint of the wine. This makes for a fascinating, if a tad confusing, tasting experience. In addition, this high acidity can create wines that are extremely age-worthy- although Vouvray is often bottled early and aged in the bottle, hardly ever oaked. Pair with rich dishes and flavorful sauces. Common aromas of apple, fig, ginger and flowers.

Free tasting, and truly a steal at only $8 a glass. With the eclectic vinyl stylings of DJ Ilmo. Cheese pairing by Saxelby's in the Essex Market.

Tonight
at Barramundi
67 Clinton St
NYC