What is the main grape variety grown in the Pays Nantais?

The primary grape variety grown in the Pays Nantais is Muscadet, which is particularly known for producing white wines that are vibrant and refreshing. Muscadet, also referred to by its full name Muscadet Sèvre et Maine, is made from the Melon de Bourgogne grape. This region, located near the Loire River estuary, is characterized by its cool maritime climate, which is conducive to the growing conditions of this grape variety.

Muscadet wines typically exhibit bright acidity and flavors of citrus, green apple, and sometimes a hint of salinity, making them especially suited for pairing with seafood, a local specialty. The region's name itself is often associated with Muscadet, solidifying its importance in this area’s viticulture.

While Chenin Blanc and Sauvignon Blanc are also significant varieties in the broader Loire Valley, they are not the primary focus in the Pays Nantais. Merlot, on the other hand, is predominantly associated with other French wine regions, particularly Bordeaux, and is not a mainstay in this particular area. Thus, Muscadet stands out as the unequivocal representation of the grape variety cultivated in the Pays Nantais.