Lieu Dit Melon Santa Maria Valley 2018

It’s rare to see Melon – the French grape of Muscadet – in California, but there are some old plantings scattered around the state (because UC Davis mistakenly thought it was Pinot Blanc). Alcohol here is just 11.8% – this is so light and fresh, with racy acidity. There’s a gentle fruitiness, with aromas of green apples, as well as a subtle, creamy lees influence and a stony, steely texture. Very much a wine to be drunk with oysters.