Loire

Wines from the Loire

Along the Loire River, we find the Loire wine region. It is the longest wine region in France, stretching from Sancerre all the way to the Atlantic Ocean. Due to the varying soil structures, climates, and grape varieties, the Loire consists of several distinct regions, each with a diverse range of wines. Sauvignon Blanc, by far the most widely planted, takes center stage. The Loire consists of five distinct regions. The area around Nante is at the western end of the river; further along you'll find Anjou, Saumur, Touraine, and finally Centre-Loire.

The two banks of the Loire

The two regions of Pouilly-Fumé and Sancerre stand diametrically opposed from their respective banks on the Loire. Sancerre, located on the left bank, is the most famous of the two. This region boasts no fewer than three soil types: one consisting of small-scale soil, another containing flint, and a third limestone. Most wineries ensure that grapes are planted on all three soil types, ensuring a balance between them in the final wine. The wines from Pouilly-Fumé are considerably more elegant and robust, with the vines deeply rooted in the mineral soil. Pascal Jolivet Winery owns impressive vineyards in both Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé and is among the finest wineries in the region. Their wine selection showcases the richness of both regions. Compare the Sauvignon Blanc from Pouilly-Fumé with that from Sancerre, and you'll be amazed at what both regions have to offer.

Various grape varieties in the Loire Valley

The vast area where the Loire Valley vineyards are located creates a variety of microclimates. Along the coast, an Atlantic climate prevails, with relatively high rainfall and wind. Further inland, a more maritime and continental climate prevails. These variations result in a wide variety of grape varieties. The native grape variety of the Loire Valley is Chenin Blanc. This grape is often the basis for dry wines. With a later harvest, it forms the basis for semi-dry or sweet wines. Other white grape varieties include Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Melon de Bourgogne, Folle Blanche, and Pinot Gris. The red grape Grolleau is native to Touraine in the Loire Valley. This grape produces fruity, semi-dry rosé wines. Other common grape varieties include Cabernet Franc, Gamay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pineau d'Aunis, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. The Marc Bredif winery incorporates many of these grape varieties into its extensive range. This ultramodern winery has, for example, released a Vouvray Classic, a classic Chenin Blanc that uniquely reflects the Loire Valley terroir.

The miles-long wine route of the Loire

In total, the Loire Valley comprises over 55,000 hectares of vineyards, and the wine route stretches some 800 kilometers. Thanks to the diversity of soil types and climates, this region produces a wide variety of wines. With over twenty grape varieties planted, every wine lover can find something to enjoy here, whether you prefer red, white, or rosé. The wines of the Loire Valley come in all shapes and sizes.