Loire Valley

Loire Valley: France's Diverse Wine Treasure at Drinks House 247

The Loire Valley, with its majestic châteaux and verdant vineyards, offers a wine for every palate. From the crisp Sauvignon Blancs of Sancerre to the sweet nectars of Vouvray, our Loire Valley collection is a journey through France's garden.

A Guide to the Loire Valley

The Loire is France's longest river, and its vineyards stretch for hundreds of kilometres from near the Atlantic to the centre of France. The cool climate gives wines that are fresh, crisp and food-friendly, from bone-dry whites to light, juicy reds.

Regions and grapes

• Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé: the home of fine Sauvignon Blanc. Flinty soils give citrus, gooseberry and a smoky, mineral edge, hence "fumé". Try Seguin's Cuvée Prestige or Domaine de Bel Air's Cuvée des Acoins.
• Saumur-Champigny: light, fragrant reds from Cabernet Franc, with raspberry and a hint of herbs. Domaine des Sables Verts' Glouglou is named after the sound of happy pouring.
• Vouvray: Chenin Blanc, made in every style from dry to lusciously sweet.
• Muscadet: near the coast, crisp and saline, made for oysters.

Pouilly-Fumé or Pouilly-Fuissé?

The names are easily confused. Pouilly-Fumé is a Loire Sauvignon Blanc. Pouilly-Fuissé is a Chardonnay from southern Burgundy, richer and rounder. We list both here because customers often look for them together; see Burgundy for more Chardonnay.

Serving and pairing

Serve whites at 8–10°C. Loire Sauvignon is perfect with goat's cheese, seafood and salads. Serve Saumur-Champigny lightly chilled, at 12–14°C, with charcuterie, roast chicken or salmon. Explore more Sauvignon Blanc and French wine.

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