Loire AOCs

Question 1

Muscadet AOC

Answer 1

Wine Styles: Dry White
Grape Varieties:
White: [P]Melon de Bourgogne [S] Chardonnay

The winegrowing area of the Muscadet AOC is mostly flat and closely overlaps the Gros Plant du Pays Nantais AOC. Despite the fact that this appellation covers more than ground, the Muscadet Sevre et Maine AOC actually produces more wine. The Muscadet AOC is only responsible for 20% of all the Muscdet produced, and as of 2020, it is not permitted to produce wines sur lie! Up to 10% Chardonnay is authorized as of the 2021 vintage.

The other Muscadet appellations are dry white and 100% Melon d Bourgogne.

Question 2

Muscadet Sevre et Maine

Answer 2

This appellation is responsible for 75% of all the AOC Muscadet bottld. It stretches south and east of the city of Nantes and takes its name from 2 Loire tributaries, the Sevre Nantaise and the Maine. About 90% of production is aged sur lie.

Muscadet Sevre et Maine has identified distinctive terroirs of consistent quality. As of 2019, there were 7 approved DGCs, with 2 more in the queue.

The 7 are:
Chateau-Thebaud
Clisson
Gorges
Goulaine
Monnieres-Saint-Fiacre
Mouzillon-Tillieres
Le Pallet

The future 2 are:
Vallet & La Haye-Fouassiere

Regulations forthese DGCs include lower yields and high alcohol. The DGCs have longer minimum sur lie aging requirements than the other Muscadet AOCs but may NOT put the term sur lie on their labels.

Question 3

Muscadet Coteaux de la Loire AOC

Answer 3

This is the smallest of the Muscadet AOCs and the furthest from the sea. Its zone of production is located northeast of Nantes, on both sides of the Loire River, and overlaps most of the Coteaux d’Ancenis AOC. Vines are planted on hillsides (as opposed to relatively flat terrain). As of 2020, one potential DGC, Champtoceaux, has been identified but not approved.

Question 4

Muscadet Cotes de Grandlieu AOC

Answer 4

This appellation is located southwest of Nantes along Lake Grand-Lieu. The terrain is flat. Sea breezes of salinity to the finished wines.

Question 5

Gros Plant du Pays Nantais AOC

Answer 5

Wine Styles: Dry White

Grape Varieties:
White: [P] Folle Blanche [S] Colombard, Montils

Gros Plant du Pays Nantais produces dry white wines from Folle Blanche (locally known as Gros Plant). Gros Plant translates as “big plant”; the vine is quite vigorous and high yielding. Vineyards are located on the best parcels along the Sevre and Maine rivers in sandy soils peppered with gravel and granite. Gros Plant du pays Nantais may label its wines sur lie if the wine has undergone aging on its lees.

Question 6

Coteaux d’Ancenis AOC

Answer 6

Wine Styles: Rose, Red, Semi-Sweet White

Sweetness: Semi-Sweet White between 2-4% (20-40 g/l)

Grape Varieties:
Rose: [P]Pinot Gris
Red: [P] Gamay [S] Cabernet Franc

This appellation decided to focus on Gamay and Pinot Gris after achieving AOC status. In fact, Gamay represents 65% of the appellation’s total vineyard plantings. Whites are made ini a semi-sweet style from Pinot Gris, here known as Malvoisie, and are labeled Coteaux d’Ancienis Malvoisie. Production is almost evenly divided between red, white and rose.

Question 7

Fiefs Vendeens AOC

Answer 7

Wine Styles: Dry White, Rose, Red

Grape Varieties:
White: [P]Chenin Blanc [S] Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc
Rose: [S] Grolleau Gris
Red: [P]Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir [S] Cabernet Sauvignon, Gamay, Negrette

Fiefs Vendeens labels are always coupled with one of its 5 DGCs:

Brem
Chantonnay
Mareuil
Pissotte
Vix

All white wines consist of a majority of Chenin Blanc. Reds from Brem and Pissotte are based on PInot Noir, whereas reds from Chantonnay, Mareuil and Vix are based on Cabernet Franc. Roses for all 5 DGCs are Gamay / Pinot Noir- based in different porpotions. Nearly 80% of the appellation’s vineyards are planted to red grapes!

Question 8

Anjou AOC

Answer 8

Wine Styles: Dry White, Red, Semi-Sweet to Sweet White, Sparkling White, Sparkling Rose

Minimum Sweetness: Semi-Sweet to Sweet White: EU levels apply

Grape Varieties:
White: [P] Chenin Blanc [S] Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc
Rose: [S] Grolleau Gris
Red: [P]Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Gamay [S] Grolleau, Pineau d’Aunis

Anjou reds account for about twice as much production as Anjou whites. Reds are typically a blend of the 2 Cabernets with Grolleau and Pineau d’Aunis in support roles. Anjou Gamay is 100% Gamay and can also be vinified as primeur and launched the 3rd Thursday of November the same year the grapes were harvested.

For a long time, Anjou whites were considered a “consolation prize.” Healthy grapes not affected by botrytis would be picked up and vinified into dry wines while vignerons waited for the botrytized grapes to be ready for harvest.

Anjou whites are prmilary from Chenin Blanc; however, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc can be blending partners. Today, many winemakres are giving more focus to Anjou whites by making separate 100% Chenin Blanc wines to express Anjou’s distinct terroirs - schist and chalk.

A small amount of Anjou mousseux is also made. Anjou Mousseux whites are made primarily with Chenin Blanc. The other authorized grapes can be blending partners. Rose mousseux are produced from the red and gris grapes with no specific regulations for the blend.

Question 9

Anjou Villages AOC

Answer 9

Wine Styles: Red

Grape Varieties:
Red: [P] Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon

The Anjou Villages AOC highlights the best terriors for red grapes within the Anjou zone of production. There are 46 villages authorize to produce wine under this regulation although their names do not appear on the label. The wines are always a blend of both grapes; yields are lower than for Anjou reds.

Question 10

Anjou Brissac AOC

Answer 10

Wine Styles: Red

Grape Varieties:
Red: [P] Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon

Formerly called Anjou Villages Brissac, this AOC produces wine from both Cabernets, but Cabernet Franc tends to dominate the blend. Yields are less than for Anjou Villages. A forest shelters the village of Brissac and its surrounding vineyards from cool ocean breezes, making Brissac warmer and drier than its neighbors.

Question 11

Cabernet d’Anjou AOC

Answer 11

Wine Styles: Rose

Minimum Sweetness: 1% (10g/l)

Grape Varieties:
Red: [P]Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon

Cabernet d’Anjou has perceptible sweetness. It is made from Cabernets and boasts the largest production of the 3 rose appellations in Anjou. The wines have a characteristic “onion skin” color and are typically vinified via direct press, although saignee is also permitted.

Question 12

Rose d’Anjou AOC

Answer 12

Wine Styles: Rose

Minimum Sweetness: 0.7% (7g/l)

Grape Varieties:
Rose: [P]Grolleau Gris
Red: [P]Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cot, Gamay, Grolleau, Pineau d’Aunis

The backbone of Rose d’Anjou blend is Grolleau. There is no dominant product method.

Question 13

Coteaux du Layon AOC

Answer 13

Wine Styles: Semi-Sweet to Sweet White

Minimum Sweetness: 3.4% (34g/l), Premier Cru Chaume 8% (80g/l)

Grape Varieties:
White: [P] Chenin Blanc

Vineyards lie on schist, sands and gravel soils flanking both sides of the Layon River. Although weather patterns are largely driven by the Atlantic, vineyards face either south or southwest and amass significant heat. This orientation allows the grapes to overripen with less threat of rot. Although minimum RS is only 3.4% (34g/l), most bottlings are significantly higher. More sweet wine is produced here than semi-sweet.

6 communal DGCs are allowed to add their name to the label:
Beaulieu-sur-Layon
Faye-d’Anjou
Rablay-sur-Layon
Rochefort-sur-Loire
Saint-Aubin-de-Luigne
Saint-Lambert-du-Lattay

The village of Chaume, located in Rochefort-sur-Loire, is allowed to place its name on the label along with the term “Premier Cru”. Here, grapes must be handpicked in successive passes, selecting only overripe grapes, with or without noble rot. Yields are less than Coteaux du Layon and RS must be at least 8% (80g/lg).

The term Selection de Grains Nobles can be placed on the Coteaux du Layon label if the Chenin Blanc grapes were affected by noble rot and they achieved 19% potential alcohol. However, this term has not been embraced and it is rarely used. Chaptalization is disallowed. Wines are aged until June 1st of the 2nd year after harvest and the vintage date must appear on the label. The tines are honeyed with notes of apricot, pnieapple and dried fruits.

Question 14

Quarts de Chaume Grand Cru AOC

Answer 14

Wine Styles: Sweet White

Minimum Sweetness: 8.5% (85g/l)

Grape Varieties:
White: [P] Chenin Blanc

The word “Quarts” (quarter) references the Middle Ages when farmers had to give 1/4 of their harvest to the local lords. Soils here represent a complex mix of schists and sandstone. Slopes face south and overlook the Layon River whose autumn mists encourage the development of noble rot, however grapes can also be concentrated by passerillage.

Question 15

Bonnezeaux AOC

Answer 15

Wine Styles: Sweet White

Minimum Sweetness: 5.1% (51g/l)

Grape Varieties:
White: [P] Chenin Blanc

Bonnezeaux lies on the right bank of the Layon River and takes its name from the French “bonnes eaux,” which means “good waters.” It is often compared to the nearby Quarts de Chaume Grand Cru, but it is thought of as having more refreshing acidity. Its minimum sweetness is higher than most of the other sweet appellations, but is less than either Coteaux du Layon Premier Cru Chaume or Quarts de Chaume Grand Cru.

Question 16

Anjou-Coteaux de la Loire AOC

Answer 16

Wine Styles: Semi-Sweet to Sweet White

Minimum Sweetness: 3.4% (34g/l)

Grape Varieties:
White: [P] Chenin Blanc

Anjou-Coteaux de la Loire is a small appellation west of Angers on both sides of the Loire River. It is sandwiched between Muscadet Coteaux de la Loire and Savennieres. The Loire River has a strong effect here as the vineyards lie within 3km of its banks; temperature is moderated and autumn fog is abundant.

Question 17

Coteaux de l’Aubance AOC

Answer 17

Wine Styles: Semi-Sweet to Sweet White

Minimum Sweetness: 3.4% (34g/l)

Grape Varieties:
White: [P] Chenin Blanc

Coteaux de l’Aubance lies on both banks of the Aubance River, a tributary of the Loire. It is the warmest of the Anjou appellations because it is well protected from the ocean breezes by surrounding forests. Similar to the Coteaux du Layon AOC, the term Selection de Grains Nobles can be placed on the label if th grapes have been affected by noble rot.

Question 18

Savennieres AOC

Answer 18

Wine Styles: Dry White, Semi-Sweet to Sweet White

Minimum Sweetness: EU Levels

Grape Varieties:
White: [P] Chenin Blanc

THe vineyards of Savennieres are planted on 5 steep, south-facing hills perpendicular to the Loire’s right bank and produce what many believe to be France’s most age-worthy wines. These wines, classically dry but sometimes semi-swet and sweet, are made exclusively from Chenin Blanc grown on soils of slate, schist, volcanic rock and aoelian sands. The wines have aromas of peaches, dried fruit, honey and beeswax,

Throughout much of Savennieres’ history, the women of the winegrowing families worked the vineyards and made the wine. This tradition continues today; many estates are passed from mother to daughter.

Question 19

Savennieres Roche aux Moines AOC

Answer 19

Wine Styles: Dry White, Semi-Sweet to Sweet White

Minimum Sweetness:3% (30g/l)

Grape Varieties:
White: [P] Chenin Blanc

Roche aux Moines lies within the Sacennieres AOC. This famous liue-dit has been in continuous production since the 12th century when the plot was gifted to the Abbey Saint Nicolas of Angers. The monks planted the vineyard which was named “Monks Rock” or Roche aux Moines. The appellation has lower yields than Saennieres and mandates hand harvesting and a minimum of 2 passes through the vineyard. No chaptalization is allowed. Sweet wines are made in years where conditinos endenger the development of botrytis.

Question 20

Coulee de Serrant AOC

Answer 20

Wine Styles: Dry white, Semi-Sweet to Sweet White

Minimum Sweetness: 3% (30g/l)

Grape Varieties:
White: [P] Chenin Blanc

This ineyard was planted by Cistercian monks in 1130 and the waines have been sold under the name Coulee de Serrant since then. This small monopole 6.87ha is owned by the Joly family. Coulee de Serrant is farmed biodynamically, with low yields, and harvested by hand with a minimum of 2 passes through the vineyard. Dry and sweet wines are permittedl however the estate focuses on dry only.

Question 21

Saumur Appellations

Answer 21

Saumur is known for its sparkling wines! in fact, Saumur is the single largest producer of sparkling wines in the Loire. This is parly due to the size of the AOC and partly because the permitted yields for its mousseux are higher than for the Cremany de Loire AOC. In addition to the noted fines bulles, still whites, reds and roses are also produced.

Question 22

Saumur AOC

Answer 22

Wine Styles: Dry White, Rose, Red, Sparkling White, Sparkling Rose

Grape Varieties:
White: [P]Chenin Blanc [S] Chardonny, Sauvignon Blanc
Rose: [S] Grolleau Gris
Red: [P]Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon [S] Pineau d’Aunis, Gamay, Grolleau, Pinot Noir

The Saumur AOC largely covers the Saumur region; however, Saumur AOC mousseux incorporates some areas of Anjou. Out of all the wines styles produced within this AOC, mousseux production dominates by far.

Saumur mousseux can be white or rose and is often referred to as Saumur Brut. Chenin Blanc is the primary grape for the white; Cabernet Franc is the primary grape for the rose. All other authorized varieties can complment in the blend. The wines must rest at least 9 months sur lie.

Saumur whites are made from 100% Chenin Blanc. Saumur reds are primarily Cabernet Franc with possible additions of Cabernet Sauvignon or Pineau d’Aunis. Saumur roses (formerly Cabernet de Saumur) are a combination of Cabernet Franc and Cebernet Sauvignon and are stylistically dry.

Saumor AOC has one DGC, Puy-Notre-Dame, which is for red wines crafted from Cabernet Franc; Cabernet Sauvignon is the authorized blending partner.

Question 23

Samur-Champigny AOC

Answer 23

Wine Styles: Red

Grape Varieties:
Red: [P]Cabernet Franc [S] Cabernet Sauvignon, Pineau d’Aunis

Saumur-Champigny is the most imporant red appellation in the Anjou-Saumur region. Tuffeau soils give elegance, soft tannins and freshness to the wines. Champigny is a small zone comprised of 8 villages near the town of Saumur. “Champigny” is believed to have been dereived from the Latin Campus igni meaning”field of fire” because of the area’s waarm mesoclimate.

Question 24

Coteaux de Saumur AOC

Answer 24

Wine Styles: Semi-Sweet to Sweeet White

Minimum Sweetness: 3.4% (34g/l)

Grape Varieties:
White: [P]Chenin Blanc

Coteaux de Saumur covers a large area south of the town of Saumur, but the area under vine is quite small. It has been planted to Chenin Blanc since the Middle Ages, producing a sweet white from overripe grapes that may or may not be affected by noble rot. A hand harvest is mandatory.

Question 25

Haut-Poitou AOC

Answer 25

The Haut-Poitou AOC covers vineyards north of the city of Poitiers. It is administratively connected to the region where Cognac is made, but viticulturally connected to the Loire.

Wine Styles: Dry White, Rose, Red

Grape Varieties:
White: [P] Sauvignon Blanc
Rose: [P] Sauvignon Gris
Red: [P] Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir, Gamay [S] Merlot

Haut-Poitou is located southeast of Saumur on sands, chalky-clays and flint-rich sandy clays.The area has a decidedly continental climate thanks to hills which block any maritime influence. Vineyards face south and are planted on an elevated plateau. Haut-Poitou’s whites are made from the two Sauvignons. Reds and roses are principally crafted from Cabernet Franc.

Question 26

Touraine AOC

Answer 26

Wine Styles: Dry White, Rose, Red, Sparkling White, Sparkling Rose

Grape Varieties:
White: [P] Sauvignon Blanc [S] Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, Orbois
Rose: [S] Sauvignn Gris, Grolleau Gris, Pinot Gris
Red: [P]Cabernet Franc, Cot, Gamay [S] Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grolleau, Meunier, Pinot d’Aunis

The Touraine AOC covers a alrge area and stretches more than 100km from the town of Blois to the cofluence of the Vienne and Loire rivers.

Tourain mousseux whites are primarily crafted from Chenin Blanc and made in the traditional method, spending 9 months on their lees. Touraine mousseux roses are made from a wide range of grapes, often Cabernet Franc, Gamay and Grolleau. The still whites produced here are primarily Sauvignon Blanc. Touraine still roses must be a blend of at least 2 of the approved grape varieties, vinified dry, and no single grape variety can be more than 70% of the blend. Red wines are based on Cabernet Franc. Additiontally, this AOC also produces a Gamay and a Gamay primeur.

5 DGCs have been authorized within Touraine AOC:
Amboise
Azay-le-Rideau, Chenonceaux, Mesland and Oisly. Each DGC has a different focus of style (including sweetness level) and grape variety.

In contrast to the Touraine region as a whole, about 60% of Touraine AOC production is dry white.

Question 27

Touraine Noble Joue AOC

Answer 27

Wine Styles: Rose

Grape Varieties:
Rose: [S] Pinot Gris
Red: [P]Meunier [S] Pinot Noir

Touraine Noble Joue lies within the Touraine appellation but has beene awarded its own AOC. It takes its name from the city of Joue-les-Tours and from the “noble” grapes grown there. It produces a distinctive vin gris from a blend of 3 Pinots: Meunier, Noir and Gris. Meunier forms the backbone of the blend and contributes body, Pinot Gris is secondary and provides fruit and finesse and Pinot Noir adds roundness and length. The wine is largely made via direct press (although the Meunier can be given a brief maceration) and is always fermented dry. The making of red wine from th same vat is forbidden.B

Question 27

Touraine Noble Joue AOC

Answer 27

Wine Styles: Rose

Grape Varieties:
Rose: [S] Pinot Gris
Red: [P]Meunier [S] Pinot Noir

Touraine Noble Joue lies within the Touraine appellation but has beene awarded its own AOC. It takes its name from the city of Joue-les-Tours and from the “noble” grapes grown there. It produces a distinctive vin gris from a blend of 3 Pinots: Meunier, Noir and Gris. Meunier forms the backbone of the blend and contributes body, Pinot Gris is secondary and provides fruit and finesse and Pinot Noir adds roundness and length. The wine is largely made via direct press (although the Meunier can be given a brief maceration) and is always fermented dry. The making of red wine from th same vat is forbidden.

Question 28

Bourgueil AOC

Answer 28

Wine Styles: Rose, Red

Grape Varieties:
Red: [P] Cabernet Franc [S] Cabernet Sauvignon

Bourgueil liese to the north of the Chinon on the right bank of the Loire. It originally included Saint-Nicolas-de Bourgueil within its boundaries, but the area was separated into two after the French Revolution. WInemakers generally divide the appellation’s wines into 2 categories: “gravel wines” and “tuffeau wines” based upon the soils where the grape was grown. (Approximately 60% of the vineyards lie on sandy gravels.) “Gravel wines” tend to display raspberry fruit, while “tuffeeau wines” are more structured and complex with nuances of spiced plums. The landscape consists of plains, hills and river terraces. Vineyards face south to maximize warmth.

Question 29

Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil AOC

Answer 29

Wine Styles: Rose, Red

Grape Varieties:
Red: [P]Cabernet Franc [S] Cabernet Sauvignon

Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil is located to the west of Bourgueil on the right bank of the Loire, with the same terrain and south-facing vineyards. Soils here contain higher percentages of sandy gravels. Wines are almost exclusively Cabernet Franc and display the raspberry fruit typical of “gravel wines” abd a suple mouthfeel

The wines of Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil are charactrized by supple tannins and generous fruit. They are fast to mature and can be consumed upon release, but some cuvees and easily age. Dry roses are made from the same grape varieties. Wines from Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil can legally be bottled as Bourgueil, but this is rarely done.

Question 30

Chinon AOC

Answer 30

Wine Styles: Dry White, Rose, Red

Grape Varieties:
White: [P] Chenin Blanc
Red: [P] Cabernet Franc [S] Cabernet Sauvignon

Chinon flanks the Vienne River. It is the Loire’s largest red appellation by volume. Those vineyards closest to the river are planted on sands and gravels. Those planted on slopes have soils of tuffeau, while those planted at higher elevations have soils of flint-clay and sand (delivering lighter wines of great finesse). This is one of the warmest growing areas in Touraine thanks to the forests that lie to the north and west, which protect the vineyards from storms and cold winds.

Question 31

Vouvray AOC

Answer 31

Wine Styles: Dry White, Semi-Sweet to Sweet White, Sparkling White

Minimum Sweetness: Semi-Sweet to Sweet White: EU levels apply

Grape Varieties:
White: [P] Chenin Blanc [S] Orbois

A small oceanic influence reachs Vouvray and quickly warms the soils (aubuis and perruches). The appellation produces a variety of styles of wine from Chenin Blanc (which may optionally include a small amount of Orbois). Vouvray is the Middle Loire’s largest producer of white AOC wine by volume (dry, off-dry and sweet); however, sparkling wines, both mousseux and petillant, remain the most important wines made here and represent 60% of the production. Mousseux and petillant wines are made by the methode traditionnelle and spend a minimum of 12 months aging sur lie before release.

Question 32

Montlouis-sur-Loire AOC

Answer 32

Wine Styles: Dry White, Semi-Sweet to Sweet White, Sparkling White

Minimum Sweetness: Semi-Sweet to Sweet White: EU levels apply

Grape Varieties:
White: [P]Chenin Blanc

Montlouis-sur-Loire is bookended by the Cher River to the south and the Loire River to the north. Similar to Vouvray, Montlouis-sur-Loire produces sparkling, dry, semi-sweet and sweet wines; however, only Chenin Blanc is allowed here, and its flinty-clays (perruches) and chalky-clays (aubuis) have more sand and gravel. A whopping 35% of the vineyards here are organic and 35% more are certified as Terra Vitis (a certification considered to be halfway to organic practices). Sparkling wine, both mousseux and petillant, accounts for most of the appellation’s production.

In 2017, petillant original wine style was approved for AOC production. Grapes for these fines bulles are harvested by hand. Winemaking regulations stiulate no additions of any kind, including sugar or yeast. There is only one fermentation with 9 months on the lees, and disgorgement is without dosage.

Question 33

Valencay AOC

Answer 33

Wine Styles: Dry White, Rose, Red

Grape Varieties:
White: [P]Sauvignon Blanc [S] Chardonnay, Orbois
Rose: [S] Sauvignon Gris
Red: [P]Cot, Pinot Noir, Gamay [S] Cabernet Franc Pineau d’Aunis

Valencay is located on the left bank of the Cher River in the southeastern quadrant of Touraine. It is only 30km away from the Centre-Loire AOCs of Quincy and Reuilly! Soils are comprised of chalk, perruches and sandy gravels. Surrounding forests protect the vines from cold winds. This French wine AOC shares its name with another product, a famous semi-soft goat cheese.

Question 34

Cheverny AOC

Answer 34

Wine Styles: Dry White, Rose, Red

Grape Varieties:
White: [P]Sauvignon Blanc [S] Chardonnay, Orbois, Chenin Blanc
Rose: [P]Sauvignon Gris
Red: [P]Pinot Noir [S]CoT, Gamay

Cheverny’s vineyards are scattered among wooded areas and nestled between the Beuvron, Cosson and Bievre rivers and their tributaries. As a result, the area is slightly drier and warmer than most of Touraine because the trees block cold winds and the rivers moderate temperatures. 1/4 of the appellation’s vineyards are farmed organically and 32% have achieved Terra Vitis certification.

Question 35

Cour-Cheverny AOC

Answer 35

Wine Styles: Dry White, Semi-Sweet White, Sweet White

Sweetness: Semi-Sweet White between 2-4.5% (20-45g/l), Sweet White: EU levels apply

Grape Varieties:
White: [P]Romorantin

Legend says that King Francois I ordered the planting of his favorite Bourgogne grape in the village of Romorantin. The grape later assumed the name of this village This AOC lies entirely within the boundaries of Cheverny. The wines taste of citrus, flowers and peach and are often compared to Chardonnay. Production is mostly dry, although sweeter styles are allowed.

Question 36

Orleans AOC

Answer 36

Wine Styles: Dry White, Rose, Red

Grape Varieties:
White: [P] Chardonnay
Rose: [S] Pinot Gris
Red: [P] Meunier [S] Pinot Noir

The vineyards of Orleans surround the town of the same name. The zone of production encompasses both banks of the Loire River, but few vineyards are planted on the right bank. Soils of the left bank consists of sandy, pebbly alluvium. Whites are mostly Chardonnay with PInot Gris as an occassional blending partner. Reds and roses are largely crafted from Meunier.

Question 37

Orleans-Clery AOC

Answer 37

Wine Styles: Red

Grape Varieties:
Red: [P] Cabernet Franc

Orleans-Clery lies within the Orleans appellation and possesses the same soils. It makes only red wines from Cabernet Franc.

Question 38

Coteaux du Loir AOC

Answer 38

Wine Styles: Dry White, Rose, Red, Semi-Sweet to Sweet White

Minimum Sweetness: Semi-Sweet to Sweet White: EU levels apply. Dry Whites and Roses must be labeled Sec if less than 0.8% (8g/l) RS

Grape Varieties:
White: [P] Chenin Blanc
Red: [P]Pineau d’Aunis [S] Cabernet Franc, Cot, Gamay, Grolleau

This appellation has lost vineyard acerage since earning AOC status. In fact, only half the vineyard produce wine intended for the AOC. Many vineyrds exist for the home winemakers! Vineyards are planted on the steep slopes of the river valleys of the Loir and its tributaries are on the edges of the plateau that these rivers carved out. Soils consist of clays, sands and gravels atop chalk. both the rivers and a nearby forest keep the vineyards warm and protected. Whites are crafted from Chenin Blanc; red and rose blends are based on Pineau d’Aunis.

Question 39

Jasnieres AOC

Answer 39

Wine Styles: Dry White, Semi-Sweet to Sweet White

Minimum Sweetness: Semi-Sweet to Sweet White: EU levels applt. Dry Whites must be labeled Sec if less than 0.8% (8g/l)

Grape Varieties:
White: [P]Chenin Blanc

Jasnieres is the smallest of the Loir alley AOCs. It is sometimes referred to as the “Savennieres” of Touraine. Vineyards are planted on south-facing slopes. A forest blocks cold north winds, while an east wind serves to dry out the vine canopy and mitigate the threat of midlew. Sweet wines are only made in the best vintages, with or without botrytis.

Question 40

Coeatux du Vendomois AOC

Answer 40

Wine Styles: Dry White, Rose, Red, Semi-Sweet to Sweet Whites

Minimum Sweetness: Semi-Sweet to Sweet White: EU levels apply. Dry Whites must be labeled Sec if less than 0.8% (8g/l)

Grape Varieties:
White: [P]Chenin Blanc [S] Chardonnay
Red: [P]Pineau d’Aunis [S] Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, Gamay

The vineyards of Coteaux du Vendomois flank both sides of the Loir. Its many tributaries merge perpendicularly into this river, creating temperature-moderating wind tunnels in the resulting valleys. Soils are Turonian sand and flinty-clays. Whites are crafted from Chenin Blanc and are sometimes blended with Chardonnay. Red blends are based on Pineau d’Aunis. Roses are often labeled gris and are made exclusively with Pineau d’Aunis via direct press.

Question 41

Cremant de Loire AOC

Answer 41

Wine Styles: Sparkling White, Sparkling Rose

Grape Varieties:
White: [P] Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, Orbois
Rose: [P] Grolleau Gris
Red: [P] Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grolleau, Pineau d’Aunis, Pinot Noir

Cremant de Loire can be made as sparkling white and rose and is typically made with Chenin Blanc, Cabernet Franc and/or Chardonnay. Wines can be vintage or non-vintage. Large cremant houses account for 80% of the production.

Question 42

Rose de Loire AOC

Answer 42

Wine Styles: Rose

Grape Varieties:
Rose: [P]Grolleau Gris
Red: [P] Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Gamay, Grolleau, Pineau d’Aunis, Pinot Noir

Even though the zone of production is largee, Rose de Loire has the smallest production out of the 3 roses authorized in Anjou. There is no blending formula or mandated production method outside of the stupilation that the wine must be vinified dry.

Question 43

Pouilly-Fume AOC

Answer 43

Wine Styles: Dry White

Grape Varieties:
White: [P] Sauvignon Blanc

Pouilly-Fume lies on the right bank of the Loire, facing Sancerre. Only white wines are made here. Soils consist of argiles a selix, caillottes, terres blanches and some sands. Winemakers make balanced blends utilizing fruit from vines grown in the various soil types, but they also make cuvees from single soil types or single plots. Sauvignon Blanc is called Blanc-Fume within this appellation. Fume, meaning “smoked,” refers to the gunflint aromas found in the wines produced on flinty-clay soils.

Question 44

Pouilly-sur-Loire AOC

Answer 44

Wine Styles: Dry White

Grape Varieties:
White: [P] Chasselas

In the beginning of the 1860s, table grapes served as dessert were at the forefront of culinary fashion in Paris. Some vignerons within the Pouilly-Fume appellation were persuaded to sell their Chasselas as fresh produce vs vinifying it. This was not a hard-sell, as grapes sold as produce commanded a higher price than grapes sold for wine. As the trend lost momentum, Pouilly producers once agaiana made wine from Chasselas, but they did so under a separate AOC.

Question 45

Menetou-Salon AOC

Answer 45

Wine Styles: Dry White, Rose, Red

Grape Varieties:
White: [P] Sauvignon Blanc
Red: [P] Pinot Noir

Menetou-Salon is considered to be the “sister” of Sancerre - they share a similar terroir and the same grapes. The AOC is composed of 10 villages, and any of them may append their name on the label so long as 100% of the grapes come from the named villge. The appellation is flatter thn Sancerre, exposing it to southwest winds and additional risk of frost.

Question 46

Quincy AOC

Answer 46

Wine Styles: Dry White

Grape Varieties:
White: [P] Sauvignon Blanc
Red: [S] Sauvignon Gris

Quincy lies largely long the left bank of the Cher River (with a very small section on the opposite bank). The quality of these vineyards was widely recognized during the Middle Ages, and from that point forward its wine industry flourished for centuries. After Phylloxera, dedicated producters rebuilt to maintain established quality standards, but they could not sustain momentu after WW2. The younger generations moved to cities to find work, and the vineyards languished. The appellation began to revitalize in the 1980s and has experienced a renaissance. Today, Sauvignon Blanc, with Sauvignon Gris as a minoy blending partner, is planted on plateaus near the Cher River, largely on sands and gravels.

Question 47

Reuilly AOC

Answer 47

Wine Styles: Dry White, Rose, Red

Grape Varieties:
White: [P] Sauvignon Blanc
Rose: [S] Pinot Gris
Red: [P] Pinot Noir

Reuilly is a non-contiguous appellation. The largest portion of the AOC lies on both sides of the Arnon River; the other section borders the Cher River. The appellation boastsa dry mesoclimate and is always the first to harvest in Centre-Loire. White wines are made from Sauvignon Blanc, reds from Pinot Noirs. Roses are made from Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris. Producers use direct press or saignee, but the wines are generally quite pale either way.

Question 48

Coteaux du Giennois AOC

Answer 48

Wine Styles: Dry White, Rose, Red

Grape Varieties:
White: [P] Sauvignon Blanc
Red: [P] Pinot Noir, Gamay

Coteaux du Giennois lies along the right bank of the Loire, north of Pouilly-Fume. It is situated at the sme latitude as Chablis. In fact, the 2 appellations are separated by 100km and the Morvan forest. Whites are quite mineral and bracing acidity. Reds and roses are made from Gamay and Pinot Noir, but Pinor Noir usually dominates the blend.

Question 49

Chateaumeillant AOC

Answer 49

Wine Styles: Rose, Red

Grape Varieties:
Rose: [S] Pinot Gris
Red: [P]Gamay [S] Pinot Noir

Directly south of Quincy and Reuilly lies Chateaumeillant, the smallest and most southerly of the Centre-Loire appellations and the most central AOC in France. Here, the sedimentry soils of the Paris Basin meet the Massif Central. Topsoils are sandy-clay, while subsoils are gneiss, sandstone and mica schist. Only reds and roses are made, and gamay dominates both. Roses are made by direct press.

Question 50

Saint-Pourcain AOC

Answer 50

Wine Styles: Dry White, Rose, Red

Grape Varieties:
White: [P] Chardonnay [S] Sacy, Sauvignon Blanc
Red: [P]Gamay, Pinot Noir

This land was first planted to the vine by Gallo-Romans; it is one of France’s oldest winegrowing areas. During the Middle Ages, wines were transported both to aristocracy in the Loire as well as to popes in Avignon and were highly regarded. Phylloxera and the railroad (bringing inexpensive wine from Languedoc) collapsed the wine industry, and it is still on the path to recovery. Most vineyards lie on slopes facing one of the 3 rivers that flow through the area (Sioule, Allier and Bouble).

Question 51

Cotes d’Auvergne AOC

Answer 51

Wine Styles: Dry White, Rose, Red

Grape Varieties:
White: [P] Chardonnay
Red: [P] Gamay [S] Pinot Noir

Viticulture dates back to the 5th century in Cotes d’Auvergne. Gamay became the grape of choice as of the 18th century, was replaced by French-American hybrids during the phylloxera crisis and regained favor and focus in the 20th century. Vineyards are planted near the sprawling city of Clermont-Ferrand and located between 370-480m in elevation.

5 DGCs are authorized and may add their name to the label:
Boudes
Chanturgue
Chateaugay
Madargue for reds
Corent for roses

Question 52

Cote Roannaise AOC

Answer 52

Wine Styles: Rose, Red

Grape Varieties:
Red: [P] Gamay

Vineyards lie between the Monts de la Madeleien and the Loire River on southast-facing slopes of significant elevation (350-550m). A number of small rivers cross through the area as they make their way from nearby moutains to merge with the Loire. nearly half the vineyards are farmed orgnically. Roses are made by saignes sonly and have a distinctive salmon color and exotic fruit flavors. Red wines are made both via semi-carbonic maceration and traditional yeast-driven fermentation.

Question 53

Cotes du Forez AOC

Answer 53

Wine Styles: Rose, Red

Grape Varieties:
Red: [P] Gamay

The vine has been cultivated in Cotes du Forez since the 1st century CE. For hundreds of years, wine was made for personal consumption. This changed in the middle of the 19th century when nearby coalfields werere booming. Local vineyards expenaded to meet the demand of those thirsty workers, and a small but dedicated group of professional winemakers began to make their mark. These vineyards are planted on south0 and southwest-facing slopes on volcanic soils and are the closest vineyards to the source of the Loire River. Although some wine is made via semi-carbonic maceration, most is vinified using a traditional yeast-driven fermentaion.

Question 54

Val de Loire IGP

Answer 54

The Loire Valley has 6 IGPs: 1 regional, 1 departmental and 4 zonal. The most important is its regional, Val de Loire IGP

Wine Styles: White, Rose, Red

Grape Varieties:
White: [P]Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, Folle Blanche, Melon de Bourgogne, Orbois, Oinot Blanc, Sacy, Sauvignon Blanc
Rose: [P] Grolleau Gris, Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Gris
Red: [P] Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cot, Gamay, Grolleau, Negrette, pinot Noir, Merlot, Pineau d’Aunis, Abouriou, Egiodola

The Val de Loire IGP is France’s largest IGp in terms of area. It covers 14 departements, 12 of which can appear on labels. 90% of wines are varietal bottlings and approximately 60% are white.