Loire Valley Flashcards
1
Q
When was the first known mention of vines being planted in the Loire Valley?
A
The 1st century by a Roman officer
2
Q
When were vineyards first mentioned in Touraine and Sancerre?
A
In the 6th century
3
Q
Why is there an abundance of Chateaux along the Loire River?
A
The French royal court was located in the Loire in the 15th century. They moved back to Paris in the 16th century but much of the wealthy nobility stayed in the Loire
4
Q
Which famous painter settled and died in the Loire Valley in the early 16th century?
A
Leonardo da Vinci
5
Q
When did phylloxera hit the Loire Valley?
A
1877
6
Q
Which Loire vintages propelled the image of Loire Valley wines?
A
1995 and 1996
7
Q
Roughly what percentage of the Loire is either sustainably or organically farmed?
A
30%
8
Q
Roughly what percentage of the Loire Valley’s wines are AOC?
A
78%
9
Q
What percentage of Loire wine production is released as Vin de France?
A
12%
10
Q
What are the 5 IGPs for wine covering the Loire Valley?
A
Val de Loire
Cotes de la Charite
Coteaux de Tannay
Coteaux du Cher et de l’Arnon
Puy de Dome
11
Q
What percentage of Loire production is released as Val du Loire IGP?
A
9%
12
Q
Roughly how many hectares are covered by Val de Loire IGP?
A
4600ha
13
Q
Roughly how many hectares are covered by Val de Loire IGP?
A
4600ha
14
Q
What are vin Gris from the Loire?
A
Very pale rose wines
15
Q
What latitude is the majority of the Loire Valley on?
A
47th parallel
16
Q
Roughly how long is the Loire River?
A
1000km
17
Q
What is the climate of Nantais?
A
Cool maritime
18
Q
What is the climate of Anjou?
A
Slightly warmer than Nantais, more temperate-oceanic
19
Q
What is the climate of Saumur and Touraine?
A
Slightly more continental than maritime as further from the Atlantic
20
Q
What is the climate of the central vineyards?
A
Continental
21
Q
What is the major climactic issue for the Loire?
A
Frost
22
Q
Other than frost, what other climactic issues threaten the Loire Valley?
A
Mildew, autumn rain, and hail
23
Q
How much of France’s Sauvignon Blanc comes from the Loire Valley?
A
Roughly 33%
24
Q
Where is thought to be the home of Sauvignon Blanc?
A
Touraine and Central Vineyards, Loire Valley
25
When was Sauvignon Blanc first mentioned in history in the Loire?
1534 (as Fiers)
26
When was Sauvignon Blanc first mentioned as being in Sancerre and Pouilly Fume?
1783
27
What are the common aromas of Loire Valley Sauvignon Blanc?
Gooseberry, elderflower, nettles, and citrus
28
How is Sauvignon Blanc traditionally treated in the winery in the Loire Valley?
Often machine harvest, fermented in stainless steel and without seeing oak to retain freshness and tension
29
What percentage of France’s Chenin Blanc production comes from the Loire Valley?
93%
30
Where is the home of Chenin Blanc and what was it previously known as?
Anjou/Saumur
Previously known as Pineau d’Anjou or Pineau de la Loire
31
What is a fallback of Chenin Blanc in the Loire Valley?
Early budding making susceptible to frost
32
What are the 2 subregions famed for sweet Chenin Blanc in the Loire?
Quarts de Chaume and Bonnezeaux
33
Where is Melon de Bourgogne planted in the Loire?
Muscadet
34
Since when has Melon de Bourgogne been planted in Nantais?
1600s
35
What percentage of France’s Melon de Bourgogne plantings are in Nantais?
99.9%
36
What are the typical tasting notes of Melon de Bourgogne from the Lorie (without extensive lees aging)?
Pale, light, and neutral in flavour with good acidity
37
How is Melon de Bourgogne most commonly influenced in the winery in Muscadet?
With extended lees aging
38
Where is Chardonnay most commonly found in the Loire Valley?
Often blended with other varieties or into sparkling wines
39
What Loire appellation uses 100% Chardonnay?
Auvergne
40
Which upper Loire subregion allows for Chardonnay?
Saint-Pourcain
41
What is the most planted red grape of the Loire Valley?
Cabernet Franc
42
When was Cabernet Franc first mentioned in the Loire Valley?
1534
43
Where is Cabernet Franc most commonly found in the Loire?
Saumur and Touraine
44
What is the most common blending partner for Cabernet Franc in the Loire?
Cabernet Sauvignon
45
Describe the typical flavours found in Loire Valley Cabernet Franc
Red fruit and flora notes with plenty of peppery characters and pyrazine characters
46
What is the second most planted black grape of the Loire Valley?
Gamay
47
What is the common blending partner in the Loire Valley for Gamay?
Pinot Noir
48
Is Gamay permitted to be used in Cremant de Loire?
No
49
Where is Gamay most prevalent as a single variety in the Loire Valley?
The Upper Loire, just to the west of Beaujolais
50
When was Pinot Noir first recorded in the Loire Valley?
14th century
51
What percentage of the Loire’s Central Vineyards are made up of Pinot Noir?
15%
52
Is Pinot Noir permitted in Cremant de Loire?
Yes
53
In which Loire wines is Grolleau often found?
Off-dry Rose d’Anjou and sparkling wines
54
Is Grolleau usually found as a blend or a single variety in the Loire?
A blend
55
Which ancient Loire grape variety is related to the Pinot family?
Pineau d’Aunis
56
Where region of the Loire’s Central Vineyards Valley is Pineau d’Aunis almost exclusively planted in?
Touraine
57
Which Loire appellation are most significant for Pineau d’Aunis?
Coteaux du Vendomois and Coteaux du Loir
58
What name for Malbec is used in the Loire Valley?
Cot
59
What are the parents grapes of Cot?
Madeleine Noire des Charante and Prunelard
60
How much earlier does Cot ripen than Cabernet Franc in the Loire Valley?
2 weeks earlier
61
Where is the majority of the Loire’s Cot planted?
Touraine
62
Briefly describe the 1989 vintage in the Loire
Excellent
Almost perfect conditions through summer and autumn meant great ripeness
63
Briefly describe the 1990 vintage in the Loire
Above average
Very good year with plenty of ripeness and charm in the wines
64
Briefly describe the 1991 vintage in the Loire
Below average
Spring frosts devastated vineyards and May was cold but the rest of the season was satisfactory
65
Briefly describe the 1992 vintage in the Loire
Poor
Yields were extremely high and vines too vigorous. Almost all wines diluted and poor quality
66
Briefly describe the 1993 vintage in the Loire
Average
Most grapes ripened well but the wines are past their best. Good sweet wines
67
Briefly describe the 1994 vintage in the Loire
Below average
Severe frost destroyed much of Touraine but Saumur did well and good sweet wines were made. Many vines hit with rot in a wet September
68
Briefly describe the 1995 vintage in the Loire
Excellent
A landmark vintage for the Loire. Little frost damage followed by a hot summer meant plenty of ripeness in the grapes. Some rain in September but not enough to impact grapes. All wine styles produced at high levels
69
Briefly describe the 1996 vintage in the Loire
Excellent
The second landmark vintages for Loire. Hot summer and dry autumn meant plenty of ripeness and concentration. Not many sweet wines made due to lack of humidity in September
70
Briefly describe the 1997 vintage in the Loire
Above average
A very hot year making good quality wines but with less balance than 95 and 96. Many wines a bit flabby and unbalanced. On the whole another great year
71
Briefly describe the 1998 vintage in the Loire
Poor
Spring and summer were very good but a very wet September ruined much of the harvest. Even the top wines lack the concentration and depth of previous years
72
Briefly describe the 1999 vintage in the Loire
Average
Very producer dependant. The better producers green harvested in July allowing for more controlled yields. Those who didn’t found low concentration and balance in the grapes come harvest. Whites from Muscadet and the Central Vineyards most successful
73
Briefly describe the 2000 vintage in the Loire
Average
A poor July led to reduced yields though a good august allowed for some recovery and quality. Sweet wines suffered
74
Briefly describe the 2001 vintage in the Loire
Average
A more region specific year. Muscadet performed very well but the Central Vineyards were wrecked by autumn rains and rot. Good sweet wines produced from Saumur and Touraine
75
Briefly describe the 2002 vintage in the Loire
Excellent
A cooler year characterised by tension and good acidity across all regions with lots of balance
76
Briefly describe the 2003 vintage in the Loire
Above average
Most regions performed very well except for Sauvignon Blanc in the central Vineyards and Touraine which was overripe. Not many sweet wines
77
Briefly describe the 2004 vintage in the Loire
Above average
Very good across the board. A classic vintage though not exceptional
78
Briefly describe the 2005 vintage in the Loire
Above average
Drought reduced yields but overall there was good quality and concentration
79
Briefly describe the 2006 vintage in the Loire
Poor
July heatwave followed by cold, wet weather for the rest of the season meaning very uneven ripeness and poor quality
80
Briefly describe the 2007 vintage in the Loire
Below average
A cold wet summer led to uneven ripening despite some heat in September. There was also rot during harvest. Some whites fared well
81
Briefly describe the 2008 vintage in the Loire
Average
A tough year. Muscadet wiped out by frost. Cool and dry July/August. Sauvignon in the Central Vineyards did well
82
Briefly describe the 2009 vintage in the Loire
Excellent
Excellent concentration in Muscadet, Saumur, and Touraine. Reduced yields in central Loire but wines still excellent. Fully ripe Cabernet Franc
83
Briefly describe the 2010 vintage in the Loire
Above average
Muscadet and central Loire saw fantastic ripeness and the sweet wines of Touraine blossomed. Cabernet Franc suffered from September rains, though sunshine afterwards recovered some vines
84
Briefly describe the 2011 vintage in the Loire
Below average
Muscadet and Touraine hit with disease and Cabernet Franc failed to ripen evenly. Good Chenin Blanc in Anjou and Layon and Central Vineyards were ok
85
Briefly describe the 2012 vintage in the Loire
Above average
Excellent year for muscadet and very good central vineyards. Cabernet Franc struggled to ripen and little sweet wine produced
86
Briefly describe the 2013 vintage in the Loire
Average
Touraine hit by hail. Elsewhere has good acidity and tension though most reds struggled to ripen and there was disease across the Loire
87
Briefly describe the 2014 vintage in the Loire
Above average
Good quality across all of the Loire. Cabernet Franc and Muscadet performed the best
88
Briefly describe the 2015 vintage in the Loire
Above average
Good quality across the Loire. Best wines come from Central Vineyards and Touraine
89
Briefly describe the 2016 vintage in the Loire
Below average
Frost destroyed most vineyards. Remaining wines had good concentration, mostly from Central Vineyards and Touraine. Most Cabernet Franc was ok
90
Briefly describe the 2017 vintage in the Loire
Below average
Another year of frost, destroying 95% of Savennieres. Remaining wines had good concentration though low acidity. Reds did well
91
Briefly describe the 2018 vintage in the Loire
Average
Good conditions most of the year apart from mildew in June. Lower than average acidity, though reds will age well
92
Briefly describe the 2019 vintage in the Loire
Average
Frost devastated again, though the remaining wines are of very good quality thanks to a warm June. Very few sweets produced
93
Briefly describe the 2020 vintage in the Loire
Excellent
Almost perfect growing season except for small hail patches. Top quality across the Loire
94
Briefly describe the 2021 vintage in the Loire
Below average
Another year of frost followed by disease. Whites did better than reds
95
Briefly describe the 2022 vintage in the Loire
Above average
Good quality vintage with ripeness and acidity. Wines will age
96
When was Domaine Huet established and what regions do they produce wine in?
1928
Vouvray
97
Name 3 of Domaine Huet’s top cuvées
Vouvray Petillant Brut
Le Haut Lieu
Le Mont
Clos de Bourg
Cuvée Constance
98
When was Didier Dagueneau established and what regions do they produce wine in?
1982
Pouilly Fume, Sancerre, Vin de France
99
Name 3 of Didier Dagueneau’s top cuvées
Silex
Pur Sang
Buisson Renard
Asteroide
Les Monts Dame
100
When was the first vintage of Didier Dagueneau’s Silex and Pur Sand cuvées?
1985
101
When was Guiberteau established and what regions do they produce wine in?
1935
Saumur
102
Name 3 of Domaine Guiberteau’s top cuvées
Les Moulins
Clos de Guichaux
Breze
Clos des Carmes
Les Arboises
103
When was Domaine Francois Chidaine established and what regions do they produce wine in?
1989
Montlouis-sur-Loire, Vouvray
104
Name 3 of Domaine Francois Chidaine’s top cuvées
Clos du Breuil (monopole)
Baudin
Les Bournais
Les Tuffeaux
Les Choisilles
105
When was Nicolas Joly established and what regions do they produce wine in?
1962
Savennieres
106
Name 3 of Nicolas Joly’s top cuvées
Les Vieux Clos
Le Clos de la Bergerie
La Coulee de Serrant
107
When was Domaine Francois Cotat established and what regions do they produce wine in?
1947
Sancerre
108
Name 3 of Domaine Francois Cotat’s top cuvées
La Grand Côte
Les Monts Damnes
Cul de Beaujeu
Caillottes
Cuvée Paul
109
When was the first vintage of Domaine Francois Cotat’s Caillottes Sancerre?
2005
110
When was Domaine Thibaud Boudignon established and what regions do they produce wine in?
2009
Savennieres, Anjou
111
Name 3 of Domaine Thibaud Boudignon’s top cuvées
Les Fougerais
Clos de la Hutte
Anjou Blanc
La Vigne Cendree
Clos de Fremine
112
When was Domaine des Baumard established and what regions do they produce wine in?
Established 1634
Savennieres, Quarts de Chaume, Coteaux du Layon, Anjou
113
Name 3 of Domaine des Baumard’s top cuvées
Savennieres
Savennieres Tries speciale
Savennieres Clos du Papillon
Coteaux du Layon
Quarts de Chaume
114
When was Domaine Vignoble de l’Ecru established and what regions do they produce wine in?
1972
Muscadet Sevre-et-Maine
115
Name 3 of Domaine Vignoble de l'Ecru's top cuvees
Cuvee Classique
Gneiss
Orthogneiss
Granite
Taurus
116
When was Domaine Edmond Vatan established and what regions do they produce wine in?
Mid 18th century
Sancerre
117
Name Domaine Edmond Vatan's top cuvees
Clos la Neore Blanc
Clos la Neore Rouge
118
When was Domaine de la Pepiere established and what regions do they produce wine in?
1984
Muscadet Sevre-et-Maine
119
Name 3 of Domaine de la Pepiere's top cuvees
Clisson
Chateau Thebaud
Monnieres Saint Fiacre
Gorges
120
When was Domaine du Clos Naudin established and what regions do they produce wine in?
1923
Vouvray
121
Name 3 of Domaine du Clos Naudin's top cuvees
Vouvray Brut
Vouvray Brut Reserve Millesime
Vouvray Moelleux Reserve
Vouvray Moelleux Goutte d'Or
Vouvray Demi-Sec
122
When was Domaine du Collier established and what regions do they produce wine in?
1999
Saumur
123
Name 3 of Domaine du Collier's top cuvees
Saumur Blanc
Saumur Blanc La Charpentrie
Saumur Rouge La Charpentrie
Saumur Rouge La Ripaille
124
When was Domaine Alphonse Mellot established and what regions do they produce wine in?
1513
Sancerre
125
Name 3 of Domaine Alphonse Mellot's top cuvees
La Moussiere
Edmond
Generation XIX
La Demoiselle
En Grands Champs
126
When was Domaine de Belliviere established and what regions do they produce wine in?
1995
Jasnieres, Coteaux du Loir
127
Name 3 of Domaine de Belliviere's top cuvees
Les Rosieres
Calligramme
VV Eparses
Haut Rasne
Hommage a Louis Derre
128
When was Domaine aux Moines established and what regions do they produce wine in?
12th century
Savennieres, Anjou
129
Name 3 of Domaine aux Moines's top cuvees
Savennieres Roche aux Moines
Cuvees des Nonnes Moelleux
Cuvee de l'Abbesse Doux
Anjou Villages Rouge
130
When was Domaine Gerard Boulay established and what regions do they produce wine in?
1380
Sancerre
131
Name 3 of Domaine Gerard Boulay's top cuvees
Clos du Beaujeu
Monts Damnes
Comtesse
La Cote
132
When was Domaine Lucien Crochet established and what regions do they produce wine in?
Mid 20th century
Sancerre
133
Name 3 of Domaine Lucien Crochet's top cuvees
Les Calcaires
Le Chene Marchand
La Croix du Roy
Cuvee Prestige
Vendagne du 7 October
134
When was Domaine Landron established and what regions do they produce wine in?
1945
Muscadet Sevre-et-Maine
135
Name 2 of Domaine Landron's top cuvees
Atmospheres Brut NV
Le Fied du Breil
Les Houx
136
When was Clos Rougeard established and what regions do they produce wine in?
1894
Saumur & Saumur Champigny
137
Name 3 of Clos Rougeard's top cuvees
Saumur Breze
Le Clos
Les Poyeux
Le Bourg
Coteaux de Saumur
138
Where is Pays Nantais located?
The mouth of the Loire in the Atlantic
139
What is the most important region of Pays Nantais?
Muscadet
140
What is the only permitted grape variety of Muscadet?
Melon de Bourgogne
141
What was the dominant grape of Muscadet before phylloxera and why?
Folle Blanche, planted and sued for Brandy production
142
When did Melon de Bourgogne become the dominant grape of Muscadet?
After phylloxera hit
143
What is the impact of climate change on Muscadet?
Melon de Bourgogne is ripening earlier making it more susceptible to Spring frosts, as such yields are less reliable
144
Name the 7 appellations within Pays Nantais
Muscadet
Muscadet Sevre-et-Maine
Muscadet Coteaux de la Loire
Muscadet Cotes de Grandlieu
Coteaux d'Ancenis
Gros Plant du Pays Nantais
Fiefs Vendeens
145
How does the permitted yields of generic Muscadet AOC differ to the other 3 Muscadet sub-appellations?
Yields for generic Muscadet are 70hl/ha compared to 55hl/ha for the sub-appellations
146
May generic Muscadet be permitted to sur-lie aging?
Only if the yields are less than 55hl/ha
147
What Muscadet AOC law was changed in 2020 involving grape varieties?
Muscadet AOC was permitted to have a maximum of 10% Chardonnay in the blend
148
When was Muscadet AOC granted appellation status?
1937
149
When was Muscadet Sevre-et-Maine granted AOC status?
1936, a number of months before the generic Muscadet AOC
150
Which 2 tributaries of the Loire is Muscadet Sevre-et-Maine centered around?
The Sevre Nantais and Maine tributaries
151
What percentage of Muscadet AOC is planted to Muscadet Sevre-et-Maine?
70%
152
What are the common topsoils found in Muscadet Sevre-et-Maine?
Sand, gravel, and some clay
153
Name 3 common subsoils found in Muscadet Sevre-et-Maine?
Granite, gneiss, gabbro, schist, orthogneiss
154
What is the gabbro subsoil found in Muscadet Sevre-et-Maine identical to?
Basalt
155
When were the first Muscadet Sevre-et-Maine Crus permitted, and what are they?
2011 with 3 crus:
- Clisson
- Gorges
- Le Pallet
156
Since the original 3 crus in 2022, how many more crus have been granted to Muscadet Sevre-et-Maine?
7
157
What are the 10 crus of Muscadet Sevre-et-Maine?
Clisson
Gorges
Le Pallet
Goulaine
Chateau Thebaud
Monnieres-Saint-Fiacre
Mouzillon-Tillieres
Champtoceaux
La Haye Fouassiere
Vallet
158
What are the dominant subsoils of the Clisson Cru of Muscadet Sevre-et-Maine?
Granite
159
What are the dominant subsoils of the Gorges Cru of Muscadet Sevre-et-Maine?
Gabbro
160
What are the dominant subsoils of the Le Pallet Cru of Muscadet Sevre-et-Maine?
Gneiss, orthogneiss, granite
161
What are the dominant subsoils of the Goulaine Cru of Muscadet Sevre-et-Maine?
Schist and gneiss
162
What are the dominant subsoils of the Chateau Theband Cru of Muscadet Sevre-et-Maine?
Granodiorite and gneiss
163
What are the dominant subsoils of the Monnieres-Saint-Fiacre Cru of Muscadet Sevre-et-Maine?
Gneiss
164
What are the dominant subsoils of the Mouzillon-Tillieres Cru of Muscadet Sevre-et-Maine?
Gabbro and clay
165
What are the dominant subsoils of the Champtoceaux Cru of Muscadet Sevre-et-Maine?
Mica schist and gneiss
166
What are the dominant subsoils of the La Haye Fouassiere Cru of Muscadet Sevre-et-Maine?
Orthogneiss
167
What are the dominant subsoils of the Vallet Cru of Muscadet Sevre-et-Maine?
Mica schist and Gabbro
168
How do the winemaking laws differ for the Muscadet Sevre-et-Maine crus compared to regular Muscadet Sevre-et-Maine?
Yields are lower at 45hl/ha and fruit must comes from vines with a minimum 6 years age
169
What is the difference in minimum lees aging between the Muscadet Sevre-et-Maine crus Goulaine and Le Pallet and the rest of the crus?
Goulaine and Le Pallet must stay on lees until the 1st April the second year following the harvest, whereas the rest of the crus must be aged for another 6 months beyond that, until the 1st October the second year following the harvest
170
When was Muscadet Coteaux de la Loire granted AOC status?
1936
171
Which other appellation does Muscadet Coteaux de la Loire share its area with?
Coteaux d'Ancenis
172
Where is Muscadet Coteaux de la Loire?
Northeast of Nantes, mostly on the north of the river with some vineyards on the south, continuing up until the vineyards of Anjou begin
173
What wines are permitted from Coteaux de la Loire?
Only white wine made from Melon de Bourgogne. All other wines are bottled under the Coteaux d'Ancenis appellation
174
What are the main subsoils of the Coteaux de la Loire?
Schist and granite
175
When was Muscadet Cotes de Grandlieu granted appellation status?
1994
176
Where is Muscadet Cotes de Grandlieu located?
South and just west of Nantes, based around the lake of Grandlieu
177
What wines are permitted as Muscadet Cotes de Grandlieu?
White wines made from Melon de Bourgogne
178
What are the dominant soils of Muscadet Cotes de Grandlieu?
Granite with some limestone
179
Where is Coteaux d'Ancenis located?
The same area as Muscadet Coteaux de la Loire, Northeast of Nantes, continuing up until the vineyards of Anjou begin
180
What style of wine dominates the Coteaux d'Ancenis appellations?
Semi-sweet wines based off Pinot Gris
181
What is the local name for Pinot Gris in Coteaux d'Ancenis?
Malvoisie
182
What grapes are permitted for the red and rose wines of Coteaux d'Ancenis?
Gamay and Cabernet Franc
183
What is the only permitted grape variety for whites wines coming from Coteaux d'Ancenis?
Pinot Gris
184
What are the average residual sugars of late harvest Malvoisie wines from the Coteaux d'Ancenis?
20-40g/l residual sugar
185
Where is Gros Plant du Pays Nantais located?
West of Ancenis following the river south of Nantes all the way to the coast
186
When was Gros Plant du Pays Nantais upgraded to AOC from VDQS?
2011
187
What is the main grape of Gros Plant du Pays Nantais and what's its local synonym?
Folle Blanche - Gros Plant
188
What wines are permitted from Gros Plant du Pays Nantais?
Dry white wines
189
What are the permitted grape varieties of Gros Plant du Pays Nantais?
Minimum 70% Folle Blanche (Gros Plant)
Maximum 10% Colombard
Montils
190
What is a common vinification process for Gros Plant du Pays Nantais?
Aging sur lie, the same as Muscadet
191
Where is Fiefs Vendeens located?
South of Nantes and the Muscadet appellations
192
When was Fiefs Vendeens promoted to VDQS and then AOC?
1984 and then 2011
193
What are the soils of Fiefs Vendeens?
Red clay, schist, and limestone
194
What are the permitted grapes Fiefs Vendeens?
Chenin Blanc
Chardonnay
Grolleu Gris
Pinot Noir
Gamay
Cabernet Franc
Cabernet Sauvignon
Negrette
195
What are the 5 subzones of Fiefs Vendeens?
Brem
Mareuil
Chantonnay
Pissotte
Vix
196
What percentage of Fiefs Vendeens wines are red or rose?
80%
197
Name a top producer from Fiefs Vendeens?
Domaine Saint Nicolas
J Mourat
198
What are the 2 dominant grapes of Anjou-Saumur?
Chenin Blanc
Cabernet Franc
199
What are the supporting grapes of Anjou-Saumur?
Chardonnay
Sauvignon Blanc
Cabernet Sauvignon
Grolleau
Pineau d'Aunis
200
What is the climate of Anjou?
Oceanic influences due to westerly winds, however it has the lowest rainfall of the Loire and and high cumulative temperatures
201
What are the 2 notable tributaries of the Loire in Anjou for making sweet wines?
Layon and Aubance
202
What percentage of Anjou & Saumur based rose wines come from the appellations Cabernet d’Anjou and Rose d’Anjou?
Cabernet d’Anjou = 45%
Rose d’Anjou = 17%
203
What grapes are permitted under the Cabernet d’Anjou appellation?
Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc
204
What is the minimum sweetness of Cabernet d’Anjou wines?
10g/l residual sugar
205
What are the permitted maximum yields for Cabernet d’Anjou?
60hl/ha
206
What are the permitted maximum yields of Rose d’Anjou?
65hl/ha
207
What grape varieties are permitted for Rose d’Anjou?
Grolleau
Cabernet Franc
Cabernet Sauvignon
Pineau d’Aunis
Gamay
Cot
208
What is the minimum sweetness level of Rose d’Anjou?
7g/l residual sugar
209
What is the difference between Rose d’Anjou and Rose de Loire appellations?
Rose de Loire permitted the same varieties as Rose d’Anjou and Cabernet d’Anjou but is always dry with a maximum 3g/l residual sugar and comes from more restricted areas across Anjou-Saumur and Touraine
210
What wines may be produced under the Anjou appellation?
Red, white, rose, and sparkling wines
211
Roughly what percentage if generic Anjou AOC is red?
60%
212
What grapes are permitted for Anjou Rouge?
Cabernet Franc
Cabernet Sauvignon
Pineau d’Aunis
Grolleau
213
What are the grapes requirement for Anjou Gamay AOC?
100% Gamay
214
What are the grape requirements for Anjou Blanc?
Chenin Blanc (minimum 80%)
Chardonnay
Sauvignon Blanc
215
What style of wines may be produced from Anjou Brissac and Anjou-Villages?
Still, dry, red wines
216
What are the permitted grape varieties for Anjou Brissac and Anjou Villages?
Cabernet Franc
Cabernet Sauvignon
217
When was Anjou-Villages granted its AOC?
1987
218
What are the maximum yields for Anjou-Villages and Anjou Brissac?
Anjou Villages: 55hl/ha
Anjou Brissac: 50hl/ha
219
When was Anjou Brissac granted its AOC?
1998
220
What other appellation coves the same delimited area as Anjou Brissac?
Coteaux de l’Aubance
221
Where is Coteaux du Layon located?
Along the Layon river, a tributary to the Loire which runs south of the Loire River
222
Where does the Layon River join the Loire?
South of Angers
223
How many communes are covered by the Coteaux du Layon AOC
13
224
What are the required sweetness levels and yields of Coteaux du Layon AOC?
34g/l residual sugar
35hl/ha
225
How many hectares are covered by Coteaux du Layon Villages?
180ha
226
What are the 6 villages which fall under the Coteaux du Layon Villages AOC?
Beaulieu-sur-Layon
Faye-d’Anjou
Rablay-sur-Layon
Rochefort-sur-Loire
Saint-Aubin-de-Luigne
Saint-Lambert-du-Lattay
227
What are the minimum sweetness levels and maximum yields for Coteaux du Layon Villages?
51g/l residual sugar
30hl/ha
228
How large is Coteaux du Layon 1er Cru Chaume?
70ha
229
Which village does Coteaux du Layon 1er Cru Chaume lie within?
Rochefort-sur-Loire
230
What is the minimum required sweetness level for Coteaux du Layon 1er Chaume?
80g/l residual sugar
231
Is Chaptalisation permitted within Coteaux du Layon?
Yes except for the 1er Cru Chaume
232
What is special about Quarts de Chaume?
It is the only Grand Cru appellation in all of the Loire
233
Where is Quarts de Chaume located?
The highest point of Coteaux du Layon
234
When was Quarts de Chaume granted its Grand Cru appellation?
2011
235
How large is the Quarts de Chaume appellation?
40ha
236
What are the soils of Quarts de Chaume?
Clay, schist, and pudding sandstones
237
What are the maximum yields and minimum sweetness levels of Quarts de Chaume?
25hl/ha
85g/l residual sugar
238
What is the minimum sweetness level of Quarts de Chaume grapes at harvest?
298g/l sugar (equal to 18% alcohol)
239
Where is Bonnezeaux AOC located?
Further up the Layon River from Coteaux du Layon
240
What grapes and wine styles are permitted in Bonnezeaux AOC?
Chenin Blanc
Still, sweet, white wines
241
How many hectares are within Bonnezeaux AOC?
80ha
242
What are the maximum yields and minimum sweetness levels of Bonnezeaux AOC?
25hl/ha
51g/l residual sugar
243
May the wines of Bonnezeaux be chaptalised?
Yes
244
Where is Coteaux du l’Aubance AOC located?
Along the Aubance River, which flors parallel to the Layon and joins the Loire further upstream to the Layon
245
What wines are permitted in Coteaux d’Aubance?
Sweet, still, white wines made from Chenin Blanc
246
What are the maximum yields and minimum sweetness levels of Coteaux de l’Aubance AOC?
30hl/ha
34g/l residual sugar
247
What wines are permitted from Coteaux du Saumur AOC?
Still, white, sweet wines
248
What are the soils of Coteaux du Saumur AOC?
Chalk
249
What are the maximum yields and minimum sweetness levels of Coteaux du Saumur AOC?
35hl/ha
34g/l residual sugar
250
Where is Savennieres AOC located?
Just west of Angers
251
How large is Savennieres AOC?
150ha
252
What is the only permitted grapes of Savennieres?
Chenin Blanc
253
What are the dominant soils of Savennieres?
Schist and volcanic rock with patches of sand and clay
254
What percentage of producers within Savennieres work organically?
75%
255
When was Savennieres classed as a UNESCO World Heritage site?
2001
256
Are sweet wines permitted from Savennieres?
Yes but quite rare
257
When was Savennieres granted its AOC?
1952
258
What are the 2 sub-appellations of Savennieres?
Coulee de Serrant AOC
Savennieres Roche aux Moines AOC
259
What are the permitted yields for the sub appellations of Savennieres?
Coulee de Serrant: 30hl/ha
Roche aux Moines: 35hl/ha
260
What are the soils of Savennieres Roche aux Moines?
Schist with sand and volcanic rocks
261
When was Savennieres Roche Aux Moines granted AOC status?
2011
262
When were vines thought to first be planted in Savennieres Roche aux Moines and Coulee de Serrant?
12th century
263
Who is the sole owner of Coulee de Serrant AOP?
Domaine Nicolas Joly
264
How many hectares does Savennieres Roche aux Moines have?
33ha
265
How many hectares are in Coulee de Serrant?
7ha
266
What are the 3 subsections of Coulee de Serrant?
Grand Clos de la Coulee
Clos du Chateau
Les Plantes
267
Where is Saumur located?
Southeast of Anjou along the Loire
268
Are all of Saumur’s vineyards north or south of the Loire?
South
269
What percentage of Saumur production is sparkling wine?
60%
270
What percentage of Saumur wines are red and white?
Just under 20% each
271
What are the grape requirements for Saumur Blanc?
100% Chenin Blanc
272
What are the grape requirements for Saumur red?
Minimum 70% Cabernet Franc with Cabernet Sauvignon and Pineau d’Aunis permitted to be blended
273
What is another name for Saumur Mousseaux?
Fines Bulles
274
What are the aging requirement for Saumur Mousseaux?
Traditional method sparkling with minimum 9 months on lees
275
What are the grape requirements for white and red Saumur Sparkling?
Minimum 60% Chenin Blanc for whites
Minimum 60% Cabernet Franc for rose
276
What grape varieties are permitted for Sparkling Saumur?
Chardonnay
Sauvignon Blanc
Cabernet Franc
Cabernet Sauvignon
Pineau d’Aunis
Gamay
Grolleau Gris
Grolleau Noir
Pinot Noir
277
What are the soils of Saumur?
Chalky limestone
278
Where may Cremant de Loire be produced from?
An extended area across Anjou-Saumur and Touraine
279
What grapes are permitted for Cremant de Loire?
White:
Chardonnay
Chenin Blanc
Orbois
Red:
Cabernet Franc
Cabernet Sauvignon
Grolleu Noir
Grolleu Gris
Pineau d’Aunis
Pinot Noir
280
What are the minimum aging requirements of Cremant de Loire?
Minimum 9 months on lees
281
When was Saumur Puy-Notre-Dame granted AOC status?
2009
282
What wines are permitted for Saumur Puy-Notre-Dame AOC?
Still, dry red wines
283
What are the permitted grape varieties of Saumur Puy-Notre-Dame?
Minimum 85% Cabernet Franc
Cabernet Sauvignon
284
What is the minimum potential alcohol and maximum yields of Saumur Puy-Notre-Dame?
12% minimum potential alcohol
Maximum yields 50hl/ha
285
How many hectares are under Saumur-Champigny AOC?
1600ha
286
What are the soils of Saumur Champigny?
Clay and tuffeau limestone
287
What grape varieties are permitted in Saumur-Champigny?
Minimum 85% Cabernet Franc
Cabernet Sauvignon
288
Where is Haut-Poitou located?
South of Chinon and the Loire Valley
289
When was Haut-Poitou granted appellation status?
2011
290
What grape varieties are permitted in Haut Poitou?
Sauvignon Blanc
Sauvignon Gris
Cabernet Franc
Pinot Noir Gamay
291
What are the grape requirements for Haut Poitou whites?
Sauvignon Blanc
Maximum 40% Sauvignon Gris
292
What are the grape requirements of Haut-Poitou red?
Minimum 60% Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir, and Gamay
293
Which 2 rivers are most important in Touraine AOC?
Loire and Cher Rivers
294
How many villages lie within Touraine AOC?
143
295
What is the dominant white grape of Touraine AOC?
Sauvignon Blanc
296
What is the dominant red grape of Touraine AOC?
Cabernet Franc
297
What are the 5 designations within Touraine AOC which can suffix their name to Touraine?
Oisly
Chenonceaux
Amboise
Azay-le-Rideau
Mesland
298
What percentage of Touraine’s designations account for total production?
7%
299
What are the soils of Touraine Oisly and what is the permitted grape?
Sand and clay
Sauvignon Blanc
300
What are the permitted grapes of Touraine Chenonceaux?
Whites: Sauvignon Blanc
Reds: Cot and Cabernet Franc
301
What are the main grapes and soils of Touraine Mesland, Touraine Azay-le-Rideau, and Touraine Amboise?
Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, and Chardonnay
Gamay and Cabernet Franc
Soils are flinty sands
302
Where is Saint Nicolas de Bourgeuil located?
In Touraine on the north bank of the Loire river
303
Where is Bourgeuil located?
In Touraine on the north bank of the Loire
304
Which grape dominates the red wines of Saint Nicolas de Bourgeuil and Bourgeuil?
Cabernet Franc
305
What are the superior soils of Saint Nicolas de Bourgeuil and Bourgeuil?
Tuffeau-clay
306
What are the soils at the bottom of the hills in Saint Nicolas de Bourgeuil and Bourgeuil and what is the impact on the wines?
Sandy-gravel (alluvial) soils producing lighter style wines
307
What is the maximum yield for Saint Nicolas de Bourgeuil and Bourgeuil?
55hl/ha
308
Other than Tuffeau-clay and sandy-gravel, what is the third soils of Saint Nicolas de Bourgeuil and Bourgeuil?
Chalky-clay
309
What is the major climactic worry for Saint Nicolas de Bourgeuil and Bourgeuil?
Frost
310
Where is Chinon located?
In Touraine south of the Loire River
311
What are the grape requirements of Chinon?
Minimum 90% Cabernet Franc
Maximum 10% Cabernet Sauvignon
312
What is the only permitted grape variety for Chinon white wines?
Chenin Blanc
313
What percentage of Chinon wines are white?
3%
314
When did Chinon receive its AOC?
1937
315
What Loire tributary runs through the heart of Chinon?
Vienne River
316
What are the 3 main soil types of Chinon and where in Chinon are they found?
Alluvial terraces (on lower ground near the river)
Tuffeau with clay (on the hillsides)
Sand, clay and flint (top of the hills)
317
What is the maximum yield for Chinon?
55hl/ha
318
Where is Vouvray located?
The outskirts of Tours north of the Loire River
319
When was Vouvray given its AOc?
1936
320
What are the permitted grapes of Vouvray?
Chenin Blanc
Maximum 5% Orbois
321
What is the dominant soil of Vouvray?
Tuffeau limestone with a clay-flint topsoils
322
What is the local name for the clay-flint topsoil in Vouvray?
Perruches
323
Where are the best wines of Vouvray produced?
On the premier cotes (hillsides)
324
Who is the best known producer in Vouvray?
Domaine Huet
325
What styles of wine are permitted in Vouvray?
Still, sweet, and sparkling
326
What percentage of Vouvray’s production is sparkling?
60%
327
What are the permitted residual sugar levels within Vouvray?
Sec: Less than 8g/l
Demi-Sec: 9-18g/l
Moelleux: 18-45g/l
Doux: More than 45g/l
328
Where is Montlouis sur Loire located?
In Touraine on the south side of the Loire River, opposite Vouvray
329
Which Loire tributary runs to the south of Montlouis-sur-Loire?
Cher River
330
What wines are permitted from Montlouis-sur-Loire?
Same as Vouvray:
Still, sweet, and sparkling white wines
331
What is Vin Mousseaux a Fermentation Unique from Montlouis-sur-Loire?
A sparkling wine which goes through just 1 fermentation and must spend a minimum 9 months on lees
332
What are the main soils of Montlouis-sur-Loire?
Clay and flint over yellow limestone
333
Where is Cheverny AOC located?
East of Montlouis-sur-Loire up the Loire River
334
When was Cheverny granted AOC status?
1993
335
What are the permitted white grape varieties of Cheverny?
Sauvignon Blanc with a maximum 15% of:
- Chardonnay
- Chenin Blanc
- Orbois
336
What are the permitted red grape varieties of Cheverny?
45-60% Gamay
Cabernet Franc
Pinot Noir
Cot
337
What are the soils of Cheverny?
Alluvial
338
Where is Cour-Cheverny located?
The same area as Cheverny with vineyards just north of the town
339
What is the only permitted grape of Cour-Cheverny?
Romorantin
340
What are the soils of Cour-Cheverny?
Alluvial soils of sand or gravel
341
Where is Valencay located?
Extreme southeast corner of Touraine
342
When was Valencay given AOC status?
2004
343
What are the permitted white grapes of Valencay?
Sauvignon Blanc
Sauvignon Gris
Chardonnay
Orbois
344
What are the permitted red grapes of Valencay?
Cot
Cabernet Sauvignon
Pinot Noir
Gamay
345
Where is Jasnieres located?
North of Tours on the Loir tributary
346
What is the only permitted grape of Jasnieres?
Chenin Blanc
347
Where is Coteaux du Vendomois located?
North of Tours along the Loir tributary
348
What are the permitted white grapes of Coteaux du Vendomois?
Chenin Blanc
Maximum 20% Chardonnay
349
What are the permitted red grapes of Coteaux du Vendomois?
Pineau d'Aunis (dominant variety)
Cabernet Franc
Pinot Noir
Gamay
350
What is the only permitted grape variety for Coteaux du Vendomois' vin gris wines?
Pineau d'Aunis
351
Where is Coteaux du Loir located?
North of Tours along the Loir tributary
352
What is the permitted white grape for Coteaux du Loir?
Chenin Blanc
353
What are the permitted red grapes for red and rose wines from Coteaux du Loir?
Gamay
Pineau d'Aunis
Cot
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Franc
Grolleau may make 25% of a rose blend
354
What are the soils of Coteaux du Loir?
Tuffeau
355
When were vines likely first planted in Sancerre?
2nd century
356
When was Sauvignon Blanc first recorded being grown in Sancerre?
1783
357
What other grape was grown in Sancerre before its AOC for only Sauvignon Blanc?
Chasselas
358
When was Sancerre granted its AOC?
1936
359
When were red and rose wines permitted in Sancerre AOC?
1959
360
What grape variety is permitted for the red and rose wines of Sancerre?
Pinot Noir
361
What are the 3 main soil types of Sancerre?
Terres Blanches
Caillottes
Silex
362
What are the Terres Blanches soils found in Sancerre?
Kimmeridgian marls with clay and limestone with clay topsoil
Wines are often complex and fuller bodied
363
What are the Caillottes soils found in Sancerre?
Also known as griottes
Limestone pebbles of differing soils
Wines are often open and fruity
364
What are the Silex soils found in Sancerre?
Rich in flint over limestone
Wines are often powerful and firm
365
What percentage of Sancerre production is white?
85%
366
Name a famous single vineyard from Sancerre
Les Monts Damnes
Clos de Beaujeu
Chene Marchand
Grande Côte
Les Caillottes
367
Where is Pouilly-Fumé located?
The midpoint of the Loire River opposite Sancerre
368
What is the only permitted white grape of Pouilly Fume?
Sauvignon Blanc
369
When was Pouilly-Fumé granted its AOC?
1937
370
What grapes dominated Pouilly Fume before phylloxera?
Chasselas
Pinot Noir
Gamay
371
How many villages are there within Pouilly-Fumé?
7
372
What is the highest altitude village within Pouilly-Fume?
Saint Andelain
373
Which famous producer makes wines in the Saint Andelain village of Pouilly-Fumé?
Didier Dagueneau
374
Describe a typical Pouilly Fume wine
Dry with gooseberry, peach, elderflower, and a distinctive flinty note
375
What are the soils of Pouilly Fume?
The same as Sancerre
Most importantly Silex, along with limestone, clay, and marlstone
376
What are the soils types in the south of Pouilly Fume around Pouilly-sur-Loire?
Kimmeridgian clay and limestone
377
What are the soils in the north and northeast of Pouilly Fume?
Caillottes
378
What is the minimum potential alcohol of Pouilly Fume?
10.5%
379
Where is Pouilly-sur-Loire located?
Directly south of Pouilly Fume
380
What is the only permitted grape of Pouilly-sur-Loire?
Chasselas
381
What is the minimum potential alcohol of Pouilly-sur-Loire?
9.5%
382
Where is Menetou-Salon located?
A continuation of Sancerre to the southwest
383
What are the soils of Menetou-Salon?
Portlandian and Kimmeridgian limestone
384
What are the permitted grapes of Menetou-Salon?
Sauvignon Blanc
Pinot Noir
385
What is the famous village within Menetou-Salon?
Morogues
386
Where is Quincy located?
Southwest of Menetou-Salon & Sancerre
387
What is the permitted variety of Quincy?
Sauvignon Blanc
388
Which Loire tributary is Quincy based around?
Cher River
389
What are the soils of Quincy?
Sand based soils with gravel, clay, and silt
390
Where is Reuilly located?
Southwest of Quincy and Sancerre
391
What are the permitted grapes varieties of Reuilly?
Sauvignon Blanc
Pinot Noir
Pinot Gris (for rose only)
392
When was Reuilly granted its AOC for white, reds, and roses?
Whites in 1937
Reds and roses in 1961
393
What style of rose is produced in Reuilly?
Vin Gris
394
What is the river which flows through Reuilly?
Cher River
395
What are the soils of Reuilly?
Sand and gravel
396
Where is Coteaux du Giennois located?
Downstream from Sancerre, halfway between Sancerre and Orleans
397
When was Coteaux du Giennois granted AOC status?
1998
398
What are the soils of Coteaux du Giennois?
Flint and limestone soils
399
What are the permitted grape varieties of Coteaux du Giennois?
Sauvignon Blanc
Pinot Noir
Gamay
400
What is the IGP east of Coteaux du Giennois?
Coteaux de Tannay
401
Where is Orleans located?
Downstream from Sancerre and Coteaux du Giennois
402
What are the permitted grapes varieties of Orleans?
Chardonnay
Pinot Gris
Pinot Meunier
Pinot Noir
Cabernet Franc
403
When was Orleans granted AOC status?
2006
404
What are the dominant soils of Orleans?
Sandy-gravel soils
405
Where is Orleans-Clery located?
Southwest of Orleans
406
What are the permitted grapes dominated varieties varieties of Orleans-Clery?
Cabernet Franc
407
What is the dominant soil of Orleans-Clery?
Sand
408
What are the 5 appellations which make up the Central France Loire regions in the Massif Central near the source of the Loire?
Saint Pourcain
Cotes d’Auvergne
Cotes du Forez
Côte Roannaise
Chateaumeillant
409
What are the 2 IGPs around the Upper Loire regions?
IGP d’Urfe
IGP Puy de Dome
410
When was Saint Pourcain granted its AOC?
2009
411
What are the soils of Saint Pourcain?
Sandy with some granite and clay-limestone
412
What are the permitted grapes of Saint Pourcain?
Chardonnay
Tressalier
Pinot Noir
Gamay
413
What is the local name for Tressalier in Saint-Pourcain?
Sacy
414
How is Saint-Pourcain 100% Tressalier released as?
Vin de France
415
Where is Cotes d’Auvergne located?
South of Saint Pourcain in the Upper Loire
416
When was Cotes d’Auvergne granted its AOC?
2010
417
What are the soils of Cotes d’Auvergne?
Volcanic
418
What is the mountain that Cotes d’Auvergne sits upon?
Puy Mountain
419
What are the 5 crus of Cotes d’Auvergne?
Corent
Boudes
Madargue
Chanturgue
Chateaugay
420
What are the permitted varieties of Cotes d’Auvergne?
Gamay
Pinot Noir
Chardonnay
421
Which Cotes d’Auvergne cru is only permitted to make rose wines?
Corent
422
Where is Cotes de Forez located?
East of Cotes d’Auvergne in the Upper Loire
423
When did Cotes de Forez receive its AOC?
2000
424
What is the only permitted grape of Cotes du Forez?
Gamay
425
How do many producers in Cotes de Forez label non-Gamay wines?
IGP d’Urfe
426
What is Gamaret?
A Swiss grape from a cross of Gamay and Reichensteiner
427
Where is Côte Roannaise located?
North of Cotes du Forez in the Upper Loire
428
Which mountain is Côte Roannaise at the foot of?
Madeleine Mountains
429
What altitude is Côte Roannaise?
400-500m
430
When was Côte Roannaise granted its AOC?
1994
431
What is the only permitted grape of Côte Roannaise?
Gamay
432
What may non-Gamay wines be released as if made within the Côte Roannaise boundary?
IGP d’Urfe
433
What is the preferred Gamay clone within Côte Roannaise?
Gamay Saint-Romain
434
Where is Chataumeillant located?
South of Bourges (Southwest of Sancerre)
435
When was Chateaumeillant granted its AOC?
2010
436
What are the permitted grape varieties of Chateaumeillant?
Pinot Noit
Gamay
Pinot Gris (for rose only)
437
What style of rose is produced from Chateaumeillant?
Vin Gris
438
What are the soils of Chateaumeillant?
Sandy and clay over sandstone, gneiss, and schist
