France, Loire
The longest river in France gives rise to many great wines. From the
elegant Sauvignon Blanc of Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé to the rich,
honeyed flavours of Vouvray, styles change dramatically along the river.
Whether crisp and dry or sweet and unctuous, all styles of white wine
are made along the Loire's beautiful banks.
However, this great region can also produce exciting reds - in Chinon, Bourgeiul and Saumur the Cabernet Franc and Gamay grapes give light to medium-bodied sappy reds that are delicious served chilled. Further along the river in Sancerre delicate light reds and rosés are made from the noble Pinot Noir grape of Burgundy.
As they are grown in a northerly climate Loire wines retain a high level of acidity, making them perfect food wines. The elegant crisp wines of Muscadet are a great match for seafood, while Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé work particularly well with white fish and vegetable dishes, particularly asparagus. The Chenin Blanc wines of Saumur and Touraine, as well as the Cabernet Franc reds, are excellent with pork. If you are looking for a Loire white to go with cheese, the superb crotin (goats cheese) of Chavignol is delicious with the intense gooseberry Sauvignon Blanc flavours of the local Sancerre.
