Loire Valley Flashcards
What are the four sub regions of the Loire Valley from West to East?
Nantais, Angur-Samur, Touraine, Central Vineyards
What is the IGP for the Loire Valley and what wines are produced within it?
Val de Loire, typically straight forward displaying freshness, a light body and simple fruit flavours.
What is the climate of the Central vineyards>
Cool continental
What is the climate of the Nantais?
Cool maritime
What grapes are grown in central vineyards?
Sauvignon Blanc and pinot noir
What grapes are grown in Touraine?
Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc,Cab Franc and Gamay
What are the two most prestigous appellations for Sauvignon Blanc and sub region are they in?
Sancerre and Pouilly-Fume, Central Vineyards
What soil type and wines come out of Sancerre and Pouilly-Fume?
The vines are planted on well drained, stony, limestone soil. The wines from these regions tend to be dry, high acidity, with hints of green apple and wet stones. Pouilly-Fume to have subtle notes of smoke.
What are some wine making techniques for Sauvignon Blanc in the Loire?
- Gentle pneumatic pressing and temperature controlled stainless steel vats to create fresh fruit wines.
- ferment and mature their wines in old oak and keep them on fine lees to provide them with a broader texture.
What appellation is in the south-west of Sancerre and produces moderate priced wines in a similar style?
Menetou-Salon
What grape is used to make a white touraine? What other name can this appear as?
Sauvignon Blanc, Sauvignon de Touraine
What grapes are grown in Anjou-Samur?
Chenin Blanc, Cab Franc and Gamay
What grape are grown in Nantais?
Melon Blanc
What are some weather hazards in the Loire Valley?
High rainfall from the gulf stream which causes fungal problems
2. Spring frosts in more continental zones.
Where are the best sites located in Loire Valley>
Mid slopes with southerly aspect and close to the river. There is heat trapped in the river which provides warmth and reflection). And midslopes provide good drainage