The Loire is France’s longest river, and weaves its way through four beautiful but different viticultural sub-regions; Nantais, Anjou-Saumur, Touraine and Central Vineyards. Each of these regions have their own character, permitted varieties and style.
It’s France’s third largest wine region after Bordeaux and The Rhone, and it produces a plethora of world class styles from sparkling through to sweet wines. However best known are perhaps the white wines of Sancerre and Pouilly Fumé from Sauvignon Blanc grapes grown in the east.
Throughout the Loire there are stunning chateaux to visit along with the UNESCO landscape. For those who fancy some exercise with stunning views, there are 900 kms of bike paths along the river to keep you fit after all the delicious local food and wine.
Sancerre is one of the most revered white wines of the world, and the majestic mediaeval town of Sancerre itself sits on a hill overlooking vines from the many little villages of the appellation - so it’s worth a visit too. Raise a glass with the local Crottin de Chavignol goat cheese.
