Loire

Question 1

2017

Answer 1

Jacques Frost wreaked havoc in much of the Loire, with up to 95% crop loss in Savennières – although, overall, yields are slightly higher than the equally devastated 2016. Yet the quality of the remaining grapes by harvest time was promising, with perhaps slightly lower acidity than usual in the whites and good ripeness in the reds.

Question 2

2016

Answer 2

Once again, frost caused significant crop loss in the Loire Valley, especially in Muscadet (50% crop loss). Quality and concentration is good, with Chenin Blanc being particularly noteworthy in 2016 while Sancerre is thought to be the best of the Sauvignon Blanc appellations. Cabernet Franc is ‘delicious, ripe and fruity’ according to Loire courtier Chris Hardy.

Question 3

2014

Answer 3

Generally gray and rainy midsummer season led to uneven ripening throughout the valley, putting a premium on viticulture; hail hit Vouvray, cutting yields. September was ideal, saving the vintage. Mélon, Cabernet Franc were better-performing grapes; dry Chenin succeeded somewhat, sweet wines much less so

Question 4

2013

Answer 4

An annus horribilis for the producers of Vouvray and Montlouis whose crops were almost entirely wiped out by a June hailstorm. Elsewhere a sound vintage with good acidity, though the cool spring and mild conditions in August and September meant many reds struggled to achieve full ripeness.

Question 5

2011

Answer 5

Pretty rotten. Muscadet and Touraine were both blighted with fungal disease. Cabernet Franc only flourished in the best sites and with suitable selection. Chenin Blanc had a much better year, with Anjou and Coteaux du Layon being particularly impressive.