WINE TASTING IN THE LOIRE
The Loire - The Region
This is a lush green land of gently undulating countryside with rich vineyards interspersed with charming towns and magnificent châteaux.
It is no coincidence that the great men of French history, starting with the kings of France (from Charles VII to François I) set up their homes near its vast forests and on its river banks.
The region has some of the most famous châteaux in France: Amboise, Blois, Azay-le-Rideau, Villandry and Chenonceau to name but a few.
The rivers Loire, Cher, Indre and Vienne meander gracefully through the region and offer a delightful backdrop to many of the regions' châteaux and towns.
Tours–this old but lively university city is the capital of Touraine and the original home of the French language. Among its many delights is a stunning cathedral dating back almost 900 years. It is also good for a little retail therapy and a fine meal. Saumur – this interesting town on the banks of the Loire is dominated by its 14th century chateau sitting on the hill above it. It is packed with buildings carved from the local white tufa-stone and has many bustling streets to explore. Alternatively, just relax at one of the cafés in the central square with a coffee or a glass of something stronger.
The châteaux of the Loire are world famous and warrant a book to describe each one. From, arguably, the most ornate bridge in the world at Chenonceau to the most attractive kitchen garden at Villandry, each chateau has its own charm and reason to visit.
The Loire Wines
RED: Saumur, Saumur-Champigny, Chinon and Bourgueil are home to the best of the Loire’s red wines. Made predominantly from Cabernet Franc they tend to be medium bodied and dry on the palate with the best having fragrant red fruit aromas.
SPARKLING: Some good quality sparkling wine made by the same method as champagne can be found in vineyards in both Samur and Vouvray.
WHITE: Chenin Blanc is used in Montlouis and Vouvray to produce white wines ranging from dry to top quality dessert wines in the right years. In Touraine, Sauvignon Blanc is used and can make a good quality dry white wine to rival Sancerre.