Loire Valley

Question 1

Introduction of Loire Valley sparkling wine.

Answer 1

• A cool climate and limestone based soils provides near perfect conditions for growing sparkling wine grapes.
• Made by Traditional Method, these wines can share some of the yeasty aromas found in Champagne. However, the use of Chenin Blanc as the principal grape variety provides a distinct palate that is both refreshing yet subtly honeyed at the same time.

Question 2

Location of Loire Valley sparkling wine.

Answer 2

Largely centered around Saumur and eastern Touraine. The Crémant de Loire appellation covers Anjou, Saumur and Touraine.

Question 3

Climate of Loire Valley sparkling wine.

Answer 3

Cool with some maritime influence.

Question 4

Soils of Loire Valley sparkling wine.

Answer 4

Mainly clay/limestone. Some granite, schist ans slate.

Question 5

Vineyard of Loire Valley sparkling wine.

Answer 5

The most favorable sites are reserved for still wines.
• Saumur + Vouvray: mechanical harvesting permitted.
• Cremant de Loire: hand-harvesting only.
• Minimum alcohol permitted is 9% abv.

Question 6

Grape varieties of Loire Valley sparkling wine.

Answer 6

1) Saumur: Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay, Cab Fr, Cab Sauv, Pineau d’Aunis, Sauvignon Blanc, Grolleau, Grolleau Gris, Gamay, Pinot Noir.
White: minimum 60% Chenin Blanc
Rose: minimum 60% Cab Fr

2) Vouvray: Chenin Blanc

3) Crémant de Loire: Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay, Cab Fr, Cab Sauv, Pineau d’Aunis, Grolleau, Grolleau Gris, Arbois, Pinot Noir.
Pineau d’Aunis and/or Cab Sauv: maximum 30%

Question 7

Winemaking of Loire Valley sparkling wine.

Answer 7

All wines must be made by traditional method.

1) Saumur: maximum juice yield higher than in Champagne. Minimum lees ageing 9 months.
2) Vouvray: same than in Saumur.
3) Crémant de Loire: maximum juice yield similar to Champagne. Minimum lees ageing 9 months. Minimum 12 months between tirage and release from the domaine.

Question 8

Styles of Loire Valley sparkling wine.

Answer 8

The most frequently seen styles are:

1) Saumur: Brut and Rose
2) Vouvray: Brut and Pétillant
3) Crémant de Loire: Non-Dose, Brut, Rose

Question 9

Important trade structures of Loire Valley sparkling wine.

Answer 9

The leading houses are now in mixed ownership with only Ackerman in local hands. There are also a number of smaller growers and cooperatives making some sparkling wine as part of their product range.