Crémant from Loire

Question 1

Which areas are covered by the Crémant de Loire AOC?

Answer 1

Anjou, Saumur and Touraine

Question 2

Soil types encountered through out the Crémant de Loire AOC?

Answer 2

Mainly clay and limestone. But also some granite, schist and slate.

Question 3

What are the differences in harvesting techniques considering Saumur AOC, Vouvray AOC and Crémant de Loire AOC?

Answer 3

Saumur AOC and Vouvray AOC both allows machine harvesting while Crémant de Loire does not.

Question 4

Permitted grape varieties for Saumur AOC?

Answer 4

Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pineau d’Aunis, Sauvignon Blanc, Grolleau, Grolleau Gris, Gamay & Pinot Noir

Question 5

Permitted grape varieties for Vouvray AOC?

Answer 5

Chenin Blanc

Question 6

Permitted grape varieties for Crémant de Loire AOC?

Answer 6

Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pineau d’Aunis, Sauvignon Blanc, Grolleau, Grolleau Gris, Arbois & Pinot Noir.

Pineau d’Aunis and/or Cabernet Sauvignon max 30%

Question 7

Ageing time and maximum juice yields in Saumur AOC?

Answer 7

The maximum juice yield is set higher than in Champagne and 9 months lees ageing is required.

Question 8

Ageing time and maximum juice yields in Vouvray AOC?

Answer 8

Same as in Saumur

Question 9

Ageing time and maximum juice yields in Crémant de Loire AOC?

Answer 9

The maximum juice yield is that of similar to Champagne, 9 months on lees but at least 12 months between tirage and release from the domaine.

Question 10

Typical styles of sparkling wine from Saumur AOC?

Answer 10

Brut and Rosé

Question 11

Typical styles of sparkling wine from Vouvray AOC?

Answer 11

Brut and Pétillant

Question 12

Typical styles of sparkling wine from Crémant de Loire AOC?

Answer 12

Brut, Rosé and Non-dosé