There are many wines from regions in France other than Bordeaux and Bourgogne, but you know that, of course. That said, I continue to explore the luscious offerings from the Rhone Valley, Provence, Roussillon, Languedoc, Southwest France, Savoie, Jura, and of course Champagne. Just recently, I was sent wines (as samples) from both Alsace and the Loire Valley, two unique cool-climate regions. Each wine was unique and reflected the diversity of terroir, the grape itself, and winemaking styles from this significant country.
Enjoy the read and find the wines!
Alsace Reveals a Geological Diversity Like No Other Region in the World
Located in the northeastern corner of France, Alsace boasts a geological diversity like no other region in the world as it follows the long and narrow Rhine River. The Vosges Mountains provide stunning scenery for anyone who desires to journey upon the Alsace Wine Route, a 106-mile path through more than 100 bucolic wine villages.
Photo Credit: www.winefolly.com
Although many think of Riesling as the only white grape produced in Alsace, the region is actually a home for six other varieties. Exuding styles ranging from light-bodied and fresh to full-bodied and bold, mouthwatering and flavorful Riesling, Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, Gewurtztraminer, Sylvaner, Muscat and Pinot Noir are cultivated.
In Alsace, 53 appellations have been designated. Wines from AOC Alsace are affordable and easy drinking, Cremant d’Alsace are sparkling wines produced in the traditional method and the 51 unique Grand Cru appellations offer wines of rich complexity and structure. Soils are just as diverse as the wines. Clay, limestone, granite, calcareous-limestone, marl, dolomite, gypsum and Keuper are soils those upon which premium vineyards are located.
A delightful aperitif that can hold its own throughout the meal is Pierre Sparr Cremant d’Alsace ($30) of 80% Pinot Blanc and 20% Pinot Auxerrois. Enjoyed on the patio one evening, this dry, light bubbly offered aromas of lemon, lime, citrus, and white flowers. Refreshing with vibrant acidity, I found notes of herbs, more juicy citrus, golden apple, pears, nuts and persistent bubbles. Its creamy texture, minerality, and brilliant finish were notable.
Domaine Paul Blanck 2022 Pinot Blanc ($22) was a joyful wine with aromas of stone fruit, lemon spritz, juicy citrus, apricots, melon, florals, and lime peel wafting from the glass. On the refreshing palate, bright acidity lifted notes of tropical fruit such as pineapple and all the feels of minerality and salinity. From vineyards of gravel, sand, clay, and limestone, the wine was fermented in stainless steel. Sips were particularly luscious with sushi one evening!
An iconic wine, Trimbach Riesling 2022 ($25) did not disappoint thanks to its food friendly flavors and just-right acidity. From 45-50 year old vines on soil of fossils and limestone, its aromas and flavors were just what I love. Dry with a lighter body, notes of crisp, juicy apple, lemon zest, wet chalk, and hints of savory herbs led to a mouthwatering finish. Trimbach Riesling was a game changer with fresh seafood one night with friends. Consider this classic with other favorites such as chicken, veal and pasta dishes, too!
Distinct Regions in the Loire Valley Produce Wines Specific to their Terroir
The Loire is France’s longest river, more than 620 miles. Beginning south of the Massif Central in the southeast of France, the river turns west near Orleans, crosses several notable cities such as Blois, Tours, and Angers, then reaches the Atlantic Ocean near Nantes, off the coast of Brittany.
Because of its length, there are considerable differences in climate and soils among the sub-regions. Pays Nantais, located on the Atlantic coast, has been producing wine since Roman times. You’ll find a maritime climate, soils of volcanic and metamorphic rock, and the production of wines of Melon de Bourgogne. Anjou produces many of the Loire Valley’s sweet wines as well as beautiful, dry Chenin Blanc, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grolleau, and Chardonnay. A mild continental climate with some maritime influences, as well as slate and sandstone schist soils, support the growth of these varietals.
Further inland is Saumur. With its temperate maritime climate and signature tuffeau limestone soil, Saumur is the Loire Valley’s largest producer of sparkling wines of Chenin Blanc and cultivates many of the same varieties as Anjou. Touraine, also known as the “Garden of France”, exhibits an oceanic and continental climate; tuffeau limestone contributes to the minerality and freshness of the wines of Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Gamay.
*photo*
Finally, the Centre-Loire, where grapes have been cultivated for over 2000 years, is located in the geographical middle of France. A continental climate coupled with limestone, flint, and sandstone soils are elements that give Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, and Gamay their distinctive profile.
Defined regions, Nantes, Anjou, Saumur, Touraine, and Centre-Loire, produce wines specific to their terroir, which is, in my opinion, is the foundation of each wine’s profile. You may find aromatic, crisp Melon de Bourgogne, Chenin Blanc, and Sauvignon Blanc, fruit forward Pinot Noir and Gamay, earthy Cabernet Franc and Côt, or rosé from Cabernet Franc, Grolleau, and more from this expansive, beautiful region of France.
Vouvray is the world’s premier purveyor of Chenin Blanc, a grape variety native to the region and known locally as Pineau de Loire. Domaine Vincent Careme Vouvray Les Clos 2021 ($30) is of organically certified grapes cultivated in a single block of old vines on steep slopes overlooking the Loire Valley. On the nose, I found notes of herbs, citrus and dried yellow flowers. Mouthwatering acidity on the palate was a stunning foundation for notes of bright citrus, golden apple, lemon zest, chalk, minerality, and honey. Balanced with a lingering finish, this wine was a wonderful complement to our soft cheeses and a light pasta dish.
Pays Nantais wines are principally white, produced from the Melon de Bourgogne grape variety, and the most famous wine is Muscadet. The acidity of Melon de Bourgogne is reflected in its freshness and crispiness, as well as in the notes of citrus. Thanks to its location near the Atlantic Ocean, wines tend exude minerality and have a slight saltiness, two characteristics which make these wines delicious with seafood.
Jo Landon La Louvetrie 2022 Muscadet Sevre et Main ($26) was a delicious example of Melon de Bourgogne grapes cultivated from high 15-30 year old vineyards with soils ranging from sand and clay to amphibolite bedrock. On the nose, I found notes of citrus, orchard fruit, and dried apricots. Fresh with signature acidity and minerality, a rich and round mouthfeel offered savory flavors including golden apple, grilled lemon, and more of that luscious dried apricot. A lingering, vibrant finish was a bonus. Enjoy with crabcakes and grilled shrimp.
Cheers! ~ Cindy
