Loire Valley Wines

Loire Wines: The Essentials

The Loire Valley’s vineyards stretch for nearly a thousand kilometers: the Centre (Sancerre, Pouilly-Fumé, Menetou-Salon), Touraine (Chinon, Bourgueil, Vouvray, Montlouis), Anjou and Saumur (Saumur, Saumur-Champigny, Savennières), and finally the Pays Nantais (Muscadet). Its red, white, rosé, and sparkling wines are renowned for their freshness.

See also: Sancerre · Chinon

What grape varieties are grown in the Loire?

Sauvignon blanc is grown in the Centre, while Chenin blanc is grown in Anjou and Touraine. Cabernet franc is used for most of the red wines, and Melon de Bourgogne is used for Muscadet. Pinot noir, Gamay, Côt, and Grolleau are also grown there.

Which Loire wines to choose for aperitif?

A Sancerre or Menetou-Salon blanc, a Muscadet, a Vouvray, or a Crémant de Loire: lively, fresh wines that whet the appetite.

What dishes to serve with a Loire wine?

Sauvignon blanc pairs well with goat cheese, fish, and seafood; Chenin blanc with creamy poultry dishes and Asian cuisine; and Cabernet franc from Chinon or Bourgueil with charcuterie, grilled red meats, and rillettes.