TOURING AND TASTING
TOURING AND TASTING
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We live in the heart of France, within easy reach of some of the most prestigious wine producing regions such as Sancerre, Saumur and Chablis. We are based in the Loire Valley and have become experts in the wines from this region - including some of the lesser-known appellations where we often discover excellent wines at great prices.
We have a wealth of knowledge on some of the fine wines of the Loire which the French love, but which are not so well known in international markets. We have close contacts with local producers in regions such as Reuilly (amazing Sauvignon Blanc), Quincy ( the first appellation in the Loire and the second AOC status granted in France - after Châteauneuf-du-Pape) and Valençay (one of the latest regions to have been granted French AOC status, in 2004). Valençay is equally renowned for its iconic pyramid shaped goats cheese, which also has AOC status.
We can organise wine tasting tours and arrange bespoke trips to vineyards in the key wine growing regions of the Loire Valley.
We work with both drinks industry professionals and private individuals who are simply wine enthusiasts.
Rosés from the Loire vary widely. Cheaper wines include Rose d'Anjou from the Groilleau grape, which are easy summer drinking. Premium end subtle rosés are produced from Pinot Gris in small volumes in Reuilly.
The Cabernet Franc grape comes into its own in the Loire Valley, producing amazing red wines from Chinon and Borgueil. Pinot Noirs from Sancerre and Reuilly can sometimes compare with top Burgundys. Gamay is also widely grown in the Touraine.
The Loire Valley is the historical home of some of the best known white grapes which are now grown around the world. Crisp Sauvignon Blancs are the hallmarks of Sancerre, Pouilly Fume, Menetou Salon, Reuilly and Quincy. And Vouvray is, of course, the home of Chenin Blanc in varied styles from sparkling to dry, to sweet.