Loire Wine
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The Loire is France's longest river almost 400 km running from the Massif Central, situated in the centre of France, west towards the Atlantic. The Loire wine region mainly produces white wines, however there are also some reds and rosé made from Pinot Noir and Gamay grapes. Vin de Pays Loire wines are simple, usually consisting of a single grape variety. Typical Loire wine characteristics are fresh, light and fruity. Due to the length of the Loire the western areas have more of an Atlantic influence compared with the more eastern areas which have more of a continental climate. Sauvignon, Chenin, and Vouvray wines are made from Chenin grapes and come in a variety of styles. The 'terroir' is chalky limestone which is very porous allowing good drainage and vine roots to grow deep into the ground. There is a high calcium content in Limestone which also helps Chenin to maintain its acidity content, as it ripens. There are a number of appellations for which the Loire wine region has become famous for, mainly Sancerre and Pouilly Fume, however there are a number of neighbouring regions that will soon be competing for a share of the Loire wine crown. |
