The Loire Valley is an incredibly diverse, sprawling wine-region, located in the middle stretch of the Loire river in central France. Dotted with fairy-tale castles and picturesque towns, the region includes many famous appellations, each with its own distinct history, rules and grape varieties – a few of which, we are proud to represent in our range.
Anjou is the large, regional appellation that encompasses the areas around Angers and Saumur. The monasteries played a major role in helping to develop the Anjou vineyards, as each had its own enclosed plot of vines. King Henry II also played a big part in boosting the recognition of Loire, as the royal court began to serve these wines after he became king. Even following his death, wines from Anjou graced the royal tables. The region now produces wines in every style, from red to sparkling and from dry to sweet, but for our range we have selected a single, exceptional producer, from whom we have the incredible wine: Paradis de Juchepie, dry, barrel-fermented Chenin Blanc, balancing delicacy and aromatic intensity with the effects of barrel-ageing.
Savennieres is a very small appellation within Anjou, known for viticulture since Roman times, situated in a bend in the Loire River, just south of Angers. Chenin Blanc is the only grape permitted, and the wines are almost always dry in style. Full-bodied, with intense flavours and exceptional ageing potential, these are some of the finest white wines in France. From this region, we have the pleasure of representing certified organic and non-interventionist Loic from Domaine Loic Mahe, who prefers to let the effects of the seasons and terroir dominate the his remarkable wines' character.
Sancerre and Pouilly-Fume lie at the Loire Valley's easternmost edge, a much cooler area cut off from moderating oceanic influence. Historically the region grew table-grapes but switched to wine grapes at the beginning of the 20th Century. The grape variety for white wines in these two appellations is Sauvignon Blanc. Only Sancerre produces wines from Pinot Noir for reds and rosé, and the style is set by the cool climate – crisp and dry, with herbal, flinty nuances & refreshing acidity!