Loire Valley wines

Loire Valley AOCs

There are 69 Controlled Place of Origin (AOC) (Appellations d’Origine Contrôlées) wines in the Loire Valley which are produced from Nantes to Sancerre.
The wines of Anjou, Saumur and the Touraine come from the centre of this area, making up a total of 49 AOCs.
Loire Valley AOCs offer a wealth of colourful  oenological delights as there is a diverse range ofstill, rosé, white,red and sparkling wines produced throughout the region.

The best known terroirs in the Loire valley are :
 
Pouilly and Sancerre

In the eastern part of the Valley, most of the grapes used are Sauvignon Blanc, which also contributes to the superb white Bordeaux.

The delicious, dry white Pouilly-Fumé (do not confuse with the Burgundy Pouilly-Fuissé) is produced in this area. The Pouilly-Fumé has a bewitching perfume, rich aromas and a distinctive flavour.

The Sancerre is produced on the other bank of the river. The white wine is very dry, with a robust aroma, delicately lively and pure.

Touraine

Further West, in the center of the Valley, in the province of Touraine, the predominant grape-variety is Chenin Blanc. The better known wines are the Vouvray and the Montlouis. They are generally smooth, fruity and fresh.

Touraine is also the homeland of the best red Loire wines, Bourgueil and Chinon, elaborated mainly from Cabernet Franc.

Anjou - Saumur

The large Anjou-Saumur region, neighbouring the Touraine on the West, also produces a white wine from Chenin Blanc. It is a charming wine, dry with a slight smoothness.

Muscadet

The Muscadet at the far West of the valley, produces a pale white wine, dry refreshing, light and astringent. The grape-variety is also called Muscadet. The wine is at its best served fresh and young.  

 

 

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