Loire Valley Region

Question 1

Location and Climate

Answer 1

Loire is the longest river in France going from central France, moving west, and then ending at the Atlantic Ocean.

Valley is central-northern

Temperate maritime climate with mild winters, warm summers

Question 2

Grapes

Answer 2

Sauvignon Blanc (36%), Chenin Blanc (24%), Cabernet France (18%), Pinot Noir (8%), Melon de Bourgogne (5%), Rose Blend, White Blend

Question 3

Terroir

Answer 3

Rolling hills, valleys, plains

Diverse soils ranging from limestone and clay to flint and sand

Question 4

Wine Characteristics

Answer 4

Fresh, crisp, lively acidity

Range from dry to sweet

Green apple, plum, floral and herbal undertones and sometimes some Smokey minerality

Question 5

Sauvignon Blanc

Answer 5

Most famous expression of the grape come from Sancerre, Touraine, and Pouilly Fume

(Ripe gooseberry, quince, grapefruit, flint, smoke)

Question 6

Muscadet (melon)

Answer 6

Nantais region is known for its mineral white wines with melon

Wine ages on the lees (sur lie) to give them a rounder mouth feel and yeasty aroma

(Lime, sea shell, green apple, pear)

Question 7

Cabernet Franc

Answer 7

Mostly grows in Chinon and Bourgell

Region is cool so reds are spicy and herbaceous with bell pepper notes

(Roasted pepper, raspberry, sour, cherry, iron, dried herbs)

Question 8

Sparkling Wines

Answer 8

Grapes include chenin Blanc, Chardonnay, Cabernet franc

Delivers tart fresh fruit flavors