LaCheteau Muscadet de Sèvre-et-Maine sur lie

Great price to value

Pale yellow gold with tones of silver. Very slight rim variation and medium tearing. Delicate+ intensity. Citrus forward with dehydrated lemon rind, yellow apple blossoms, and freshly risen bread dough are the first aromas to greet its inhaler, followed by white flower blossoms and salinity. Wet river rocks and sandy soils hover all around creating an unforgettable freshness. There is also a creamy texture similar to whipped greek yogurt. This wine is off dry and the nose is equal to …

Medium aromas of grapefruit, lemon rind, butter, minerals, some melon and green notes Soft, but not milky, on the palate — did not spend much time on the lees Medium+ acid Medium length Great value given how inexpensive it is

Orchid, acacia, lemon water, pear skin, and some chalk. Finishes dry and fairly focused. Worked great with a kale salad and poached egg with sourdough croutons and Parmesan-buttermilk dressing. Nothing amazing, but nothing to be mad at. Crisp, dry, and light, but with enough flavor and verve to hold interest. 88 points.

I'm not too proud to post notes about wines I pick up at Trader Joe's. My preference is to avoid the industrial US wines as I suspect they are doctored with adjuncts to "improve" the flavor profile. This cheap and cheerful Muscadet is honest and simple with generous tart orchard fruit and clean acidity. I remind Dulcie that it is cheaper than her beloved Cupcake.