French Wines: Loire

Question 1

What varietals is the AOC Pays Nantais known for?

Answer 1

Muscadet/Melon de Bourgogne

Question 2

What varietals is the AOC Anjou known for?

Answer 2

Chenin Blanc, Cabrenet Franc (sweet wines)

Question 3

What varietals is the AOC Sumer known for?

Answer 3

Chenin Blanc, Cabrenet Franc

Question 4

What varietals is the AOC Touraine known for?

Answer 4

Chenin Blanc

Question 5

What varietals is the AOC Upper Loire known for?

Answer 5

Sauvignon Blanc

Question 6

What are the major grape varieties grown in Loire?

Answer 6

Chenin Blanc (#1), Sauvignon Blanc (#2), Cabernet Franc (#1 red)

Question 7

What is Melon de Bourgogne?

Answer 7

only grown in Loire; crisp, acidic wine; Muscadet sur lie - wine if left on the fine lees after vilification until bottled (adds flavor and texture)

Question 8

How does one identify sparkling wines from Loire and how are they made?

Answer 8

“Fines Bubbles” on label; made using Methode Traditionnelle (same as Champagne) with local grapes

Question 9

How can you determine the dryness/sweetness of a French wine from Loire?

Answer 9

Sec (dry), Moelleux (semi-dry), Demi Sec (off dry), Doux (sweet)

Question 10

How does the climate and geography of Loire influence the wine style?

Answer 10

influence from Atlantic Ocean and Loire River; cool climate and limestone make wines more vegetal (best for white and sparkling)

Question 11

Who is Henry Plantagenet?

Answer 11

King of England who started serving Anjou wine

Question 12

What label terms are not regulated in Loire?

Answer 12

Vielles, Vignes, Reserve