Wine: Lieu Dit Melon 2018
Available at: Whole Foods, Black Chicken Wine Cellar
Price: $19

On the nose: White pepper, spice, orange blossom
On the palate: This wine is crisp, dry, and refreshing, with a light body and hint of salt
On the plate: Pair this with oysters, shrimp, scallops, asparagus, artichokes, or a simple salad

Our take: Melon de Bourgogne is known as Muscadet in the Loire Valley of France. Lieu Dit grows clones from the Loire Valley in cool microclimates around Santa Barbara county, to great success. Its low alcohol content (11.7 percent) makes this a food-friendly, versatile domestic alternative.

Fun fact: The marine-based soils in Santa Barbara county are very similar to those found in the Loire Valley. Marine-based soils often impart a hint of salt in the wine’s aroma, and a crisp acidity in the palate.