A drop of the good stuff
The wines of the Touraine are widely respected throughout France and renown throughout the world. While grapes have been grown in the Touraine for over 2,000 years it has only been in the last 30 or so years that they have taken their rightful position ‘centre stage’ as world-class wines to accompany truly gastronomic cuisine.
The variety and style of wines grown in this region are diverse. The principal AOC red wine is the Cabernet-Franc from Chinon and of course Bourgeuil. St. Nicolas de bourgueil are extremely popular in France and while many are exported they are also the favoured red on many ‘dinner tables’ across the Loire Valley.
Today, a number of Loire Valley chateaux still harvest quality wines that once graced the tables of Francois 1st and his entourage. You can taste and buy wines at Chateau Chenonceau. Chateau Cheverny wines are also delicious.
While reds dominate, there’s also a wonderful selection of whites, particularly the crisp white wines from Sancerre and the more sweeter varieties that hail from Vouvray. Vouray has a number of sparkling wines, most of the sweeter end of the scale. This small but important district runs along the Loire and offers numerous dégustation in places like Marc Brédif. The village of Vouvray has numerous caves and little bistro to sample local wines. The sweet Vouvray wines are enjoyed as an entrée, particularly to accompany Foie Gras. They are so sweet that they also work well as a dessert wine.
You will also find Rosé but in general its nothing superior or inferior to other roses in France.
The major wine Festival is held every May in Tours usually the second weekend (17 & 18 in 2008).
Wine
Cave Visit - Marc Bredif
— A cave to sample a degustation of local wines. Open from May to October, daily by appointment. Situated on the banks of the Loire, visit the Grand cellars to view their sparkling and local
87, quai de la Loire Rochecorbon 37210 t: 02 47 52 50 07
Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil
— This area is solely Cabernet Franc. The wine grown in this area is very distinct, normally you'll find a gravel soil which produces a powerful grape. Expect a strong bouquet of rich berries such as cherry, strawberry and raspberry. This wine is excellent with all food but particularly white meat. The area further north produces a more deeper bodied wine for red meat and game and of course the region's famous cheeses.
www.vinsdeloire.fr
Le Closerie de Chanteloup & Caves Duhard
— Two very popular caves offering many vintages. Both are situated in Amboise. Cave Duhard - 58 rue du Rocher des Violettes, Amboise t: 02 47 57 20 77 for old vintage Loire wines and fine wines for connaisseurs.
Closeire for more everyday wines but also stocking some vintage wines. t: 06 16 86 45 25 for an English guide.