On the Loire: Discovering the Touraine-Chenonceaux Appellation

In August 2021, Grape Skills founder Cynthia Ribeiro-Richter travelled along the Loire. One true highlight of this study trip: the appellation Touraine-Chenonceaux. But before we return to that, it’s worth taking a step back to the basics – because the Loire is one of France’s most diverse and fascinating wine regions.

The Loire – Diversity along France’s Longest River

At more than 1,000 kilometres, the Loire is the longest river in France and shapes one of the country’s most exciting wine regions. Its vineyards stretch across some 500 kilometres, covering a climate range from maritime-influenced coastal areas to cool continental zones further inland. This climatic variety translates into an impressive spectrum of wines: from crisp, refreshing whites to characterful reds and luscious dessert wines.

Broadly speaking, the Loire can be divided into four subregions:

Nantais – The Home of Muscadet

At the far west, right on the Atlantic coast, lies the Nantais. Here, the grape variety Melon Blanc (also known as Melon de Bourgogne) is grown, producing the Muscadet AOC. The most famous expression is Muscadet Sèvre-et-Maine AOC – light, fresh, dry white wines with citrus and green-fruit aromas, the perfect partners for seafood.

Sur Lie – A Little Secret in the Glass

A particularly interesting style is Muscadet “Sur Lie”. These wines remain on their fine lees (lies) for several months after fermentation and are only racked just before bottling without filtration. This technique lends them more texture, delicate yeasty notes reminiscent of brioche or pastry – and sometimes even a subtle, tingling freshness on the palate.

Anjou-Saumur – Contrasts of Chenin Blanc and Cabernet Franc

Further east lies Anjou-Saumur, where the maritime influence begins to fade. Here, Chenin Blanc reveals its remarkable versatility: from bone-dry, mineral-driven whites to concentrated sweet wines. Cabernet Franc is equally important, forming the backbone of elegant reds and the popular Rosé d’Anjou AOC.

Touraine – Expansive and Versatile

Further east still spreads the vast subregion of Touraine. It is best known for its fruity, easy-drinking Sauvignon Blancs but also boasts prestigious appellations such as Vouvray AOC (Chenin Blanc) and Chinon AOC (Cabernet Franc). And it was here that Cynthia’s journey led her – to the young appellation of Touraine-Chenonceaux.

Upper Loire – The Famous Names

At the eastern end of the region lies the Upper Loire, home to the celebrated appellations Sancerre AOC and Pouilly-Fumé AOC. Here, a cool continental climate meets limestone and flint soils – the ideal conditions for complex Sauvignon Blancs with tension, precision, and outstanding ageing potential.

Touraine-Chenonceaux – Young, Ambitious, and Full of Character

Nestled in the heart of Touraine is an appellation that is still relatively young but already making a name for itself: Touraine-Chenonceaux AOC. Officially recognised only in 2011, it represents quality and individuality within a region more often associated with straightforward Sauvignon Blancs.

The vineyards are situated on a plateau overlooking the river Cher, a tributary of the Loire. Gravel, clay, and limestone soils, combined with a balanced microclimate, create excellent conditions for producing grapes with depth, ripeness, and expressive aromatics.

White Wines: Sauvignon Blanc with Substance

The whites are 100% Sauvignon Blanc and must undergo a period of lees ageing, which adds texture, density, and complexity. These are Sauvignon Blancs that rise well above the everyday.

Red Wines: Côt Meets Cabernet Franc

Reds account for only about a quarter of production and are crafted from a blend of Malbec (locally called Côt) and Cabernet Franc. The result: aromatic, structured wines with the freshness so typical of the Loire.

No Oak, No Frills – Pure Loire Identity

What all wines here share is the conscious decision to avoid oak. The style is clear and focused: freshness, fruit, and varietal expression take centre stage – Loire through and through, but with a modern edge.

Conclusion

The Loire demonstrates just how diverse French wine regions can be – and how even within a well-known area such as Touraine, new and exciting appellations can emerge. Touraine-Chenonceaux is proof that it pays to look closer: young, ambitious, distinctive – and a wonderful example of how wine regions continue to evolve.

For those eager to explore French wine in all its breadth, the WSET Level 2 is the perfect place to start. And for anyone wanting to dive deeper into regions like the Loire, the WSET Level 3 offers the ideal next step.