https://www.guildsomm.com/research/expert_guides/w/expert-guides/2551/loire-valleyen-USTelligent Community 13https://www.guildsomm.com/research/expert_guides/w/expert-guides/2551/loire-valleyFri, 06 Feb 2026 13:38:01 GMT8277e151-5ba9-4335-93f0-6f497ffb8dc4:f8f47b07-8807-43cf-8f35-726d267b11a9Jonathan Eichholzhttps://www.guildsomm.com/research/expert_guides/w/expert-guides/2551/loire-valley#commentsCurrent Revision posted to Expert Guides by Jonathan Eichholz on 2/6/2026 1:38:01 PM<br /> <div class="paywall-restricted"><div class="style_box"> Contents <ol> <li>History</li> <li>Loire Valley Wine Law</li> <li>The Market</li> <li>Land and Climate</li> <li>The Grapes of the Loire Valley</li> <li>Pays Nantais</li> <li>Anjou-Saumur</li> <li>Touraine</li> <li>Central Vineyards</li> <li>Central France</li> <li>Bibliography</li> </ol> </div> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Loire Valley is the third largest wine region in France, yet it is also one of the country&rsquo;s least well known. It follows the broad sweep of the Loire River for nearly 1,000 kilometers, from the mountains of the Massif Central in the center of France to the wild Atlantic coast in the northwest. The Loire and its tributaries are home to more than 50 appellations. Most are populated by small family winegrowers, many of whom have been farming the same land <span class="widow-no-wrap">for centuries.</span></span></p> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>More famous for its ch&acirc;teaux than its wine, the Loire is a region of evident history, but it is a region of experimentation and discovery as well, where respect for the past and a spirit of innovation exist side by side.</span><span lang="DE">&nbsp;</span></p> <p><a name="01"></a></p> History <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Roman officer and historian Pliny the Elder completed his Natural History in 77 CE, reflecting the world he knew in the first century, including its vineyards and wines. In this text, he mentioned that vines were growing on the banks of the Loire, evidence that this region has a vinous history spanning at least two millennia. But it was not until the sixth century that Gr&eacute;goire, the bishop of Tours, made the first reference to the vineyards in the local region of Touraine, which today includes Chinon and Vouvray. He also confirm</span><span lang="DE">ed</span><span> that vineyards were growing in the Sancerre area, writing, &ldquo;In the year 582, a late frost scorched the vines.&rdquo; The church was a driving force in the development of the Loire&rsquo;s vineyards and wine production, as it was in other parts of France and Europe, until the French Revolution.</span></p> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Loire River and its tributaries have long provided a route to market for the region&rsquo;s wines. On the western coast, close to the mouth of the river, Nantes has been an important trading hub for centuries. There is even a theory that in the 19</span></p></div><script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(function(){ jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.subscribe('paywall.ready', function (data) { jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.publish('paywall.restricted', { contentId: 'f8f47b07-8807-43cf-8f35-726d267b11a9' }); }); }); </script><script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(function(){ jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.subscribe('paywall.ready', function (data) { jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.publish('paywall.displayPopup', { }); }); }); </script><div style="clear:both;"></div> <div style="font-size: 90%;">Tags: Preview</div> https://www.guildsomm.com/research/expert_guides/w/expert-guides/2551/loire-valley/revision/99Tue, 06 Jan 2026 22:49:12 GMT8277e151-5ba9-4335-93f0-6f497ffb8dc4:f8f47b07-8807-43cf-8f35-726d267b11a9Stacy Ladenburgerhttps://www.guildsomm.com/research/expert_guides/w/expert-guides/2551/loire-valley#commentsRevision 99 posted to Expert Guides by Stacy Ladenburger on 1/6/2026 10:49:12 PM<br /> <div class="paywall-restricted"><div class="style_box"> Contents <ol> <li>History</li> <li>Loire Valley Wine Law</li> <li>The Market</li> <li>Land and Climate</li> <li>The Grapes of the Loire Valley</li> <li>Pays Nantais</li> <li>Anjou-Saumur</li> <li>Touraine</li> <li>Central Vineyards</li> <li>Central France</li> <li>Bibliography</li> </ol> </div> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Loire Valley is the third largest wine region in France, yet it is also one of the country&rsquo;s least well known. It follows the broad sweep of the Loire River for nearly 1,000 kilometers, from the mountains of the Massif Central in the center of France to the wild Atlantic coast in the northwest. The Loire and its tributaries are home to more than 50 appellations. Most are populated by small family winegrowers, many of whom have been farming the same land <span class="widow-no-wrap">for centuries.</span></span></p> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>More famous for its ch&acirc;teaux than its wine, the Loire is a region of evident history, but it is a region of experimentation and discovery as well, where respect for the past and a spirit of innovation exist side by side.</span><span lang="DE">&nbsp;</span></p> <p><a name="01"></a></p> History <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Roman officer and historian Pliny the Elder completed his Natural History in 77 CE, reflecting the world he knew in the first century, including its vineyards and wines. In this text, he mentioned that vines were growing on the banks of the Loire, evidence that this region has a vinous history spanning at least two millennia. But it was not until the sixth century that Gr&eacute;goire, the bishop of Tours, made the first reference to the vineyards in the local region of Touraine, which today includes Chinon and Vouvray. He also confirm</span><span lang="DE">ed</span><span> that vineyards were growing in the Sancerre area, writing, &ldquo;In the year 582, a late frost scorched the vines.&rdquo; The church was a driving force in the development of the Loire&rsquo;s vineyards and wine production, as it was in other parts of France and Europe, until the French Revolution.</span></p> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Loire River and its tributaries have long provided a route to market for the region&rsquo;s wines. On the western coast, close to the mouth of the river, Nantes has been an important trading hub for centuries. There is even a theory that in the 19</span></p></div><script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(function(){ jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.subscribe('paywall.ready', function (data) { jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.publish('paywall.restricted', { contentId: 'f8f47b07-8807-43cf-8f35-726d267b11a9' }); }); }); </script><script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(function(){ jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.subscribe('paywall.ready', function (data) { jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.publish('paywall.displayPopup', { }); }); }); </script><div style="clear:both;"></div> <div style="font-size: 90%;">Tags: Preview</div> https://www.guildsomm.com/research/expert_guides/w/expert-guides/2551/loire-valley/revision/98Fri, 25 Apr 2025 16:33:52 GMT8277e151-5ba9-4335-93f0-6f497ffb8dc4:f8f47b07-8807-43cf-8f35-726d267b11a9Jonathan Eichholzhttps://www.guildsomm.com/research/expert_guides/w/expert-guides/2551/loire-valley#commentsRevision 98 posted to Expert Guides by Jonathan Eichholz on 4/25/2025 4:33:52 PM<br /> <div class="paywall-restricted"><div class="style_box"> Contents <ol> <li>History</li> <li>Loire Valley Wine Law</li> <li>The Market</li> <li>Land and Climate</li> <li>The Grapes of the Loire Valley</li> <li>Pays Nantais</li> <li>Anjou-Saumur</li> <li>Touraine</li> <li>Central Vineyards</li> <li>Central France</li> <li>Bibliography</li> </ol> </div> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Loire Valley is the third largest wine region in France, yet it is also one of the country&rsquo;s least well known. It follows the broad sweep of the Loire River for nearly 1,000 kilometers, from the mountains of the Massif Central in the center of France to the wild Atlantic coast in the northwest. The Loire and its tributaries are home to more than 50 appellations. Most are populated by small family winegrowers, many of whom have been farming the same land <span class="widow-no-wrap">for centuries.</span></span></p> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>More famous for its ch&acirc;teaux than its wine, the Loire is a region of evident history, but it is a region of experimentation and discovery as well, where respect for the past and a spirit of innovation exist side by side.</span><span lang="DE">&nbsp;</span></p> <p><a name="01"></a></p> History <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Roman officer and historian Pliny the Elder completed his Natural History in 77 CE, reflecting the world he knew in the first century, including its vineyards and wines. In this text, he mentioned that vines were growing on the banks of the Loire, evidence that this region has a vinous history spanning at least two millennia. But it was not until the sixth century that Gr&eacute;goire, the bishop of Tours, made the first reference to the vineyards in the local region of Touraine, which today includes Chinon and Vouvray. He also confirm</span><span lang="DE">ed</span><span> that vineyards were growing in the Sancerre area, writing, &ldquo;In the year 582, a late frost scorched the vines.&rdquo; The church was a driving force in the development of the Loire&rsquo;s vineyards and wine production, as it was in other parts of France and Europe, until the French Revolution.</span></p> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Loire River and its tributaries have long provided a route to market for the region&rsquo;s wines. On the western coast, close to the mouth of the river, Nantes has been an important trading hub for centuries. There is even a theory that in the 19</span></p></div><script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(function(){ jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.subscribe('paywall.ready', function (data) { jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.publish('paywall.restricted', { contentId: 'f8f47b07-8807-43cf-8f35-726d267b11a9' }); }); }); </script><script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(function(){ jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.subscribe('paywall.ready', function (data) { jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.publish('paywall.displayPopup', { }); }); }); </script><div style="clear:both;"></div> https://www.guildsomm.com/research/expert_guides/w/expert-guides/2551/loire-valley/revision/97Mon, 01 Jul 2024 14:35:05 GMT8277e151-5ba9-4335-93f0-6f497ffb8dc4:f8f47b07-8807-43cf-8f35-726d267b11a9Jonathan Eichholzhttps://www.guildsomm.com/research/expert_guides/w/expert-guides/2551/loire-valley#commentsRevision 97 posted to Expert Guides by Jonathan Eichholz on 7/1/2024 2:35:05 PM<br /> <div class="paywall-restricted"><div class="style_box"> Contents <ol> <li>History</li> <li>Loire Valley Wine Law</li> <li>The Market</li> <li>Land and Climate</li> <li>The Grapes of the Loire Valley</li> <li>Pays Nantais</li> <li>Anjou-Saumur</li> <li>Touraine</li> <li>Central Vineyards</li> <li>Central France</li> <li>Bibliography</li> </ol> </div> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Loire Valley is the third largest wine region in France, yet it is also one of the country&rsquo;s least well known. It follows the broad sweep of the Loire River for nearly 1,000 kilometers, from the mountains of the Massif Central in the center of France to the wild Atlantic coast in the northwest. The Loire and its tributaries are home to more than 50 appellations. Most are populated by small family winegrowers, many of whom have been farming the same land <span class="widow-no-wrap">for centuries.</span></span></p> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>More famous for its ch&acirc;teaux than its wine, the Loire is a region of evident history, but it is a region of experimentation and discovery as well, where respect for the past and a spirit of innovation exist side by side.</span><span lang="DE">&nbsp;</span></p> <p><a name="01"></a></p> History <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Roman officer and historian Pliny the Elder completed his Natural History in 77 CE, reflecting the world he knew in the first century, including its vineyards and wines. In this text, he mentioned that vines were growing on the banks of the Loire, evidence that this region has a vinous history spanning at least two millennia. But it was not until the sixth century that Gr&eacute;goire, the bishop of Tours, made the first reference to the vineyards in the local region of Touraine, which today includes Chinon and Vouvray. He also confirm</span><span lang="DE">ed</span><span> that vineyards were growing in the Sancerre area, writing, &ldquo;In the year 582, a late frost scorched the vines.&rdquo; The church was a driving force in the development of the Loire&rsquo;s vineyards and wine production, as it was in other parts of France and Europe, until the French Revolution.</span></p> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Loire River and its tributaries have long provided a route to market for the region&rsquo;s wines. On the western coast, close to the mouth of the river, Nantes has been an important trading hub for centuries. There is even a theory that in the 19</span></p></div><script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(function(){ jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.subscribe('paywall.ready', function (data) { jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.publish('paywall.restricted', { contentId: 'f8f47b07-8807-43cf-8f35-726d267b11a9' }); }); }); </script><script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(function(){ jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.subscribe('paywall.ready', function (data) { jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.publish('paywall.displayPopup', { }); }); }); </script><div style="clear:both;"></div> <div style="font-size: 90%;">Tags: Preview</div> https://www.guildsomm.com/research/expert_guides/w/expert-guides/2551/loire-valley/revision/96Tue, 18 Jun 2024 15:23:01 GMT8277e151-5ba9-4335-93f0-6f497ffb8dc4:f8f47b07-8807-43cf-8f35-726d267b11a9GuildSomm Adminhttps://www.guildsomm.com/research/expert_guides/w/expert-guides/2551/loire-valley#commentsRevision 96 posted to Expert Guides by GuildSomm Admin on 6/18/2024 3:23:01 PM<br /> <div class="paywall-restricted"><div class="style_box"> Contents <ol> <li>History</li> <li>Loire Valley Wine Law</li> <li>The Market</li> <li>Land and Climate</li> <li>The Grapes of the Loire Valley</li> <li>Pays Nantais</li> <li>Anjou-Saumur</li> <li>Touraine</li> <li>Central Vineyards</li> <li>Central France</li> <li>Bibliography</li> </ol> </div> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Loire Valley is the third largest wine region in France, yet it is also one of the country&rsquo;s least well known. It follows the broad sweep of the Loire River for nearly 1,000 kilometers, from the mountains of the Massif Central in the center of France to the wild Atlantic coast in the northwest. The Loire and its tributaries are home to more than 50 appellations. Most are populated by small family winegrowers, many of whom have been farming the same land <span class="widow-no-wrap">for centuries.</span></span></p> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>More famous for its ch&acirc;teaux than its wine, the Loire is a region of evident history, but it is a region of experimentation and discovery as well, where respect for the past and a spirit of innovation exist side by side.</span><span lang="DE">&nbsp;</span></p> <p><a name="01"></a></p> History <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Roman officer and historian Pliny the Elder completed his Natural History in 77 CE, reflecting the world he knew in the first century, including its vineyards and wines. In this text, he mentioned that vines were growing on the banks of the Loire, evidence that this region has a vinous history spanning at least two millennia. But it was not until the sixth century that Gr&eacute;goire, the bishop of Tours, made the first reference to the vineyards in the local region of Touraine, which today includes Chinon and Vouvray. He also confirm</span><span lang="DE">ed</span><span> that vineyards were growing in the Sancerre area, writing, &ldquo;In the year 582, a late frost scorched the vines.&rdquo; The church was a driving force in the development of the Loire&rsquo;s vineyards and wine production, as it was in other parts of France and Europe, until the French Revolution.</span></p> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Loire River and its tributaries have long provided a route to market for the region&rsquo;s wines. On the western coast, close to the mouth of the river, Nantes has been an important trading hub for centuries. There is even a theory that in the 19</span></p></div><script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(function(){ jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.subscribe('paywall.ready', function (data) { jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.publish('paywall.restricted', { contentId: 'f8f47b07-8807-43cf-8f35-726d267b11a9' }); }); }); </script><script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(function(){ jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.subscribe('paywall.ready', function (data) { jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.publish('paywall.displayPopup', { }); }); }); </script><div style="clear:both;"></div> <div style="font-size: 90%;">Tags: Preview</div> https://www.guildsomm.com/research/expert_guides/w/expert-guides/2551/loire-valley/revision/95Thu, 18 Apr 2024 15:12:13 GMT8277e151-5ba9-4335-93f0-6f497ffb8dc4:f8f47b07-8807-43cf-8f35-726d267b11a9GuildSomm Adminhttps://www.guildsomm.com/research/expert_guides/w/expert-guides/2551/loire-valley#commentsRevision 95 posted to Expert Guides by GuildSomm Admin on 4/18/2024 3:12:13 PM<br /> <div class="paywall-restricted"><div class="style_box"> Contents <ol> <li>History</li> <li>Loire Valley Wine Law</li> <li>The Market</li> <li>Land and Climate</li> <li>The Grapes of the Loire Valley</li> <li>Pays Nantais</li> <li>Anjou-Saumur</li> <li>Touraine</li> <li>Central Vineyards</li> <li>Central France</li> <li>Bibliography</li> </ol> </div> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Loire Valley is the third largest wine region in France, yet it is also one of the country&rsquo;s least well known. It follows the broad sweep of the Loire River for nearly 1,000 kilometers, from the mountains of the Massif Central in the center of France to the wild Atlantic coast in the northwest. The Loire and its tributaries are home to more than 50 appellations. Most are populated by small family winegrowers, many of whom have been farming the same land <span class="widow-no-wrap">for centuries.</span></span></p> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>More famous for its ch&acirc;teaux than its wine, the Loire is a region of evident history, but it is a region of experimentation and discovery as well, where respect for the past and a spirit of innovation exist side by side.</span><span lang="DE">&nbsp;</span></p> <p><a name="01"></a></p> History <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Roman officer and historian Pliny the Elder completed his Natural History in 77 CE, reflecting the world he knew in the first century, including its vineyards and wines. In this text, he mentioned that vines were growing on the banks of the Loire, evidence that this region has a vinous history spanning at least two millennia. But it was not until the sixth century that Gr&eacute;goire, the bishop of Tours, made the first reference to the vineyards in the local region of Touraine, which today includes Chinon and Vouvray. He also confirm</span><span lang="DE">ed</span><span> that vineyards were growing in the Sancerre area, writing, &ldquo;In the year 582, a late frost scorched the vines.&rdquo; The church was a driving force in the development of the Loire&rsquo;s vineyards and wine production, as it was in other parts of France and Europe, until the French Revolution.</span></p> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Loire River and its tributaries have long provided a route to market for the region&rsquo;s wines. On the western coast, close to the mouth of the river, Nantes has been an important trading hub for centuries. There is even a theory that in the 19</span></p></div><script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(function(){ jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.subscribe('paywall.ready', function (data) { jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.publish('paywall.restricted', { contentId: 'f8f47b07-8807-43cf-8f35-726d267b11a9' }); }); }); </script><script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(function(){ jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.subscribe('paywall.ready', function (data) { jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.publish('paywall.displayPopup', { }); }); }); </script><div style="clear:both;"></div> https://www.guildsomm.com/research/expert_guides/w/expert-guides/2551/loire-valley/revision/94Wed, 13 Mar 2024 17:35:41 GMT8277e151-5ba9-4335-93f0-6f497ffb8dc4:f8f47b07-8807-43cf-8f35-726d267b11a9Jonathan Eichholzhttps://www.guildsomm.com/research/expert_guides/w/expert-guides/2551/loire-valley#commentsRevision 94 posted to Expert Guides by Jonathan Eichholz on 3/13/2024 5:35:41 PM<br /> <div class="paywall-restricted"><div class="style_box"> Contents <ol> <li>History</li> <li>Loire Valley Wine Law</li> <li>The Market</li> <li>Land and Climate</li> <li>The Grapes of the Loire Valley</li> <li>Pays Nantais</li> <li>Anjou-Saumur</li> <li>Touraine</li> <li>Central Vineyards</li> <li>Central France</li> <li>Bibliography</li> </ol> </div> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Loire Valley is the third largest wine region in France, yet it is also one of the country&rsquo;s least well known. It follows the broad sweep of the Loire River for nearly 1,000 kilometers, from the mountains of the Massif Central in the center of France to the wild Atlantic coast in the northwest. The Loire and its tributaries are home to more than 50 appellations. Most are populated by small family winegrowers, many of whom have been farming the same land <span class="widow-no-wrap">for centuries.</span></span></p> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>More famous for its ch&acirc;teaux than its wine, the Loire is a region of evident history, but it is a region of experimentation and discovery as well, where respect for the past and a spirit of innovation exist side by side.</span><span lang="DE">&nbsp;</span></p> <p><a name="01"></a></p> History <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Roman officer and historian Pliny the Elder completed his Natural History in 77 CE, reflecting the world he knew in the first century, including its vineyards and wines. In this text, he mentioned that vines were growing on the banks of the Loire, evidence that this region has a vinous history spanning at least two millennia. But it was not until the sixth century that Gr&eacute;goire, the bishop of Tours, made the first reference to the vineyards in the local region of Touraine, which today includes Chinon and Vouvray. He also confirm</span><span lang="DE">ed</span><span> that vineyards were growing in the Sancerre area, writing, &ldquo;In the year 582, a late frost scorched the vines.&rdquo; The church was a driving force in the development of the Loire&rsquo;s vineyards and wine production, as it was in other parts of France and Europe, until the French Revolution.</span></p> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Loire River and its tributaries have long provided a route to market for the region&rsquo;s wines. On the western coast, close to the mouth of the river, Nantes has been an important trading hub for centuries. There is even a theory that in the 19</span></p></div><script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(function(){ jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.subscribe('paywall.ready', function (data) { jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.publish('paywall.restricted', { contentId: 'f8f47b07-8807-43cf-8f35-726d267b11a9' }); }); }); </script><script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(function(){ jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.subscribe('paywall.ready', function (data) { jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.publish('paywall.displayPopup', { }); }); }); </script><div style="clear:both;"></div> https://www.guildsomm.com/research/expert_guides/w/expert-guides/2551/loire-valley/revision/93Wed, 29 Nov 2023 22:01:30 GMT8277e151-5ba9-4335-93f0-6f497ffb8dc4:f8f47b07-8807-43cf-8f35-726d267b11a9Jonathan Eichholzhttps://www.guildsomm.com/research/expert_guides/w/expert-guides/2551/loire-valley#commentsRevision 93 posted to Expert Guides by Jonathan Eichholz on 11/29/2023 10:01:30 PM<br /> <div class="paywall-restricted"><div class="style_box"> Contents <ol> <li>History</li> <li>Loire Valley Wine Law</li> <li>The Market</li> <li>Land and Climate</li> <li>The Grapes of the Loire Valley</li> <li>Pays Nantais</li> <li>Anjou-Saumur</li> <li>Touraine</li> <li>Central Vineyards</li> <li>Central France</li> <li>Bibliography</li> </ol> </div> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Loire Valley is the third largest wine region in France, yet it is also one of the country&rsquo;s least well known. It follows the broad sweep of the Loire River for nearly 1,000 kilometers, from the mountains of the Massif Central in the center of France to the wild Atlantic coast in the northwest. The Loire and its tributaries are home to more than 50 appellations. Most are populated by small family winegrowers, many of whom have been farming the same land <span class="widow-no-wrap">for centuries.</span></span></p> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>More famous for its ch&acirc;teaux than its wine, the Loire is a region of evident history, but it is a region of experimentation and discovery as well, where respect for the past and a spirit of innovation exist side by side.</span><span lang="DE">&nbsp;</span></p> <p><a name="01"></a></p> History <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Roman officer and historian Pliny the Elder completed his Natural History in 77 CE, reflecting the world he knew in the first century, including its vineyards and wines. In this text, he mentioned that vines were growing on the banks of the Loire, evidence that this region has a vinous history spanning at least two millennia. But it was not until the sixth century that Gr&eacute;goire, the bishop of Tours, made the first reference to the vineyards in the local region of Touraine, which today includes Chinon and Vouvray. He also confirm</span><span lang="DE">ed</span><span> that vineyards were growing in the Sancerre area, writing, &ldquo;In the year 582, a late frost scorched the vines.&rdquo; The church was a driving force in the development of the Loire&rsquo;s vineyards and wine production, as it was in other parts of France and Europe, until the French Revolution.</span></p> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Loire River and its tributaries have long provided a route to market for the region&rsquo;s wines. On the western coast, close to the mouth of the river, Nantes has been an important trading hub for centuries. There is even a theory that in the 19</span></p></div><script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(function(){ jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.subscribe('paywall.ready', function (data) { jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.publish('paywall.restricted', { contentId: 'f8f47b07-8807-43cf-8f35-726d267b11a9' }); }); }); </script><script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(function(){ jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.subscribe('paywall.ready', function (data) { jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.publish('paywall.displayPopup', { }); }); }); </script><div style="clear:both;"></div> https://www.guildsomm.com/research/expert_guides/w/expert-guides/2551/loire-valley/revision/92Mon, 30 Oct 2023 15:36:43 GMT8277e151-5ba9-4335-93f0-6f497ffb8dc4:f8f47b07-8807-43cf-8f35-726d267b11a9GuildSomm Adminhttps://www.guildsomm.com/research/expert_guides/w/expert-guides/2551/loire-valley#commentsRevision 92 posted to Expert Guides by GuildSomm Admin on 10/30/2023 3:36:43 PM<br /> <div class="paywall-restricted"><div class="style_box"> Contents <ol> <li>History</li> <li>Loire Valley Wine Law</li> <li>The Market</li> <li>Land and Climate</li> <li>The Grapes of the Loire Valley</li> <li>Pays Nantais</li> <li>Anjou-Saumur</li> <li>Touraine</li> <li>Central Vineyards</li> <li>Central France</li> <li>Bibliography</li> </ol> </div> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Loire Valley is the third largest wine region in France, yet it is also one of the country&rsquo;s least well known. It follows the broad sweep of the Loire River for nearly 1,000 kilometers, from the mountains of the Massif Central in the center of France to the wild Atlantic coast in the northwest. The Loire and its tributaries are home to more than 50 appellations. Most are populated by small family winegrowers, many of whom have been farming the same land <span class="widow-no-wrap">for centuries.</span></span></p> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>More famous for its ch&acirc;teaux than its wine, the Loire is a region of evident history, but it is a region of experimentation and discovery as well, where respect for the past and a spirit of innovation exist side by side.</span><span lang="DE">&nbsp;</span></p> <p><a name="01"></a></p> History <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Roman officer and historian Pliny the Elder completed his Natural History in 77 CE, reflecting the world he knew in the first century, including its vineyards and wines. In this text, he mentioned that vines were growing on the banks of the Loire, evidence that this region has a vinous history spanning at least two millennia. But it was not until the sixth century that Gr&eacute;goire, the bishop of Tours, made the first reference to the vineyards in the local region of Touraine, which today includes Chinon and Vouvray. He also confirm</span><span lang="DE">ed</span><span> that vineyards were growing in the Sancerre area, writing, &ldquo;In the year 582, a late frost scorched the vines.&rdquo; The church was a driving force in the development of the Loire&rsquo;s vineyards and wine production, as it was in other parts of France and Europe, until the French Revolution.</span></p> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Loire River and its tributaries have long provided a route to market for the region&rsquo;s wines. On the western coast, close to the mouth of the river, Nantes has been an important trading hub for centuries. There is even a theory that in the 19</span></p></div><script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(function(){ jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.subscribe('paywall.ready', function (data) { jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.publish('paywall.restricted', { contentId: 'f8f47b07-8807-43cf-8f35-726d267b11a9' }); }); }); </script><script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(function(){ jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.subscribe('paywall.ready', function (data) { jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.publish('paywall.displayPopup', { }); }); }); </script><div style="clear:both;"></div> https://www.guildsomm.com/research/expert_guides/w/expert-guides/2551/loire-valley/revision/91Mon, 02 Oct 2023 13:58:33 GMT8277e151-5ba9-4335-93f0-6f497ffb8dc4:f8f47b07-8807-43cf-8f35-726d267b11a9Jonathan Eichholzhttps://www.guildsomm.com/research/expert_guides/w/expert-guides/2551/loire-valley#commentsRevision 91 posted to Expert Guides by Jonathan Eichholz on 10/2/2023 1:58:33 PM<br /> <div class="paywall-restricted"><div class="style_box"> Contents <ol> <li>History</li> <li>Loire Valley Wine Law</li> <li>The Market</li> <li>Land and Climate</li> <li>The Grapes of the Loire Valley</li> <li>Pays Nantais</li> <li>Anjou-Saumur</li> <li>Touraine</li> <li>Central Vineyards</li> <li>Central France</li> <li>Bibliography</li> </ol> </div> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Loire Valley is the third largest wine region in France, yet it is also one of the country&rsquo;s least well known. It follows the broad sweep of the Loire River for nearly 1,000 kilometers, from the mountains of the Massif Central in the center of France to the wild Atlantic coast in the northwest. The Loire and its tributaries are home to more than 50 appellations. Most are populated by small family winegrowers, many of whom have been farming the same land <span class="widow-no-wrap">for centuries.</span></span></p> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>More famous for its ch&acirc;teaux than its wine, the Loire is a region of evident history, but it is a region of experimentation and discovery as well, where respect for the past and a spirit of innovation exist side by side.</span><span lang="DE">&nbsp;</span></p> <p><a name="01"></a></p> History <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Roman officer and historian Pliny the Elder completed his Natural History in 77 CE, reflecting the world he knew in the first century, including its vineyards and wines. In this text, he mentioned that vines were growing on the banks of the Loire, evidence that this region has a vinous history spanning at least two millennia. But it was not until the sixth century that Gr&eacute;goire, the bishop of Tours, made the first reference to the vineyards in the local region of Touraine, which today includes Chinon and Vouvray. He also confirm</span><span lang="DE">ed</span><span> that vineyards were growing in the Sancerre area, writing, &ldquo;In the year 582, a late frost scorched the vines.&rdquo; The church was a driving force in the development of the Loire&rsquo;s vineyards and wine production, as it was in other parts of France and Europe, until the French Revolution.</span></p> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Loire River and its tributaries have long provided a route to market for the region&rsquo;s wines. On the western coast, close to the mouth of the river, Nantes has been an important trading hub for centuries. There is even a theory that in the 19</span></p></div><script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(function(){ jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.subscribe('paywall.ready', function (data) { jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.publish('paywall.restricted', { contentId: 'f8f47b07-8807-43cf-8f35-726d267b11a9' }); }); }); </script><script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(function(){ jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.subscribe('paywall.ready', function (data) { jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.publish('paywall.displayPopup', { }); }); }); </script><div style="clear:both;"></div> https://www.guildsomm.com/research/expert_guides/w/expert-guides/2551/loire-valley/revision/90Fri, 15 Sep 2023 15:14:43 GMT8277e151-5ba9-4335-93f0-6f497ffb8dc4:f8f47b07-8807-43cf-8f35-726d267b11a9Jonathan Eichholzhttps://www.guildsomm.com/research/expert_guides/w/expert-guides/2551/loire-valley#commentsRevision 90 posted to Expert Guides by Jonathan Eichholz on 9/15/2023 3:14:43 PM<br /> <div class="paywall-restricted"><div class="style_box"> Contents <ol> <li>History</li> <li>Loire Valley Wine Law</li> <li>The Market</li> <li>Land and Climate</li> <li>The Grapes of the Loire Valley</li> <li>Pays Nantais</li> <li>Anjou-Saumur</li> <li>Touraine</li> <li>Central Vineyards</li> <li>Central France</li> <li>Bibliography</li> </ol> </div> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Loire Valley is the third largest wine region in France, yet it is also one of the country&rsquo;s least well known. It follows the broad sweep of the Loire River for nearly 1,000 kilometers, from the mountains of the Massif Central in the center of France to the wild Atlantic coast in the northwest. The Loire and its tributaries are home to more than 50 appellations. Most are populated by small family winegrowers, many of whom have been farming the same land <span class="widow-no-wrap">for centuries.</span></span></p> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>More famous for its ch&acirc;teaux than its wine, the Loire is a region of evident history, but it is a region of experimentation and discovery as well, where respect for the past and a spirit of innovation exist side by side.</span><span lang="DE">&nbsp;</span></p> <p><a name="01"></a></p> History <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Roman officer and historian Pliny the Elder completed his Natural History in 77 CE, reflecting the world he knew in the first century, including its vineyards and wines. In this text, he mentioned that vines were growing on the banks of the Loire, evidence that this region has a vinous history spanning at least two millennia. But it was not until the sixth century that Gr&eacute;goire, the bishop of Tours, made the first reference to the vineyards in the local region of Touraine, which today includes Chinon and Vouvray. He also confirm</span><span lang="DE">ed</span><span> that vineyards were growing in the Sancerre area, writing, &ldquo;In the year 582, a late frost scorched the vines.&rdquo; The church was a driving force in the development of the Loire&rsquo;s vineyards and wine production, as it was in other parts of France and Europe, until the French Revolution.</span></p> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Loire River and its tributaries have long provided a route to market for the region&rsquo;s wines. On the western coast, close to the mouth of the river, Nantes has been an important trading hub for centuries. There is even a theory that in the 19</span></p></div><script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(function(){ jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.subscribe('paywall.ready', function (data) { jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.publish('paywall.restricted', { contentId: 'f8f47b07-8807-43cf-8f35-726d267b11a9' }); }); }); </script><script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(function(){ jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.subscribe('paywall.ready', function (data) { jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.publish('paywall.displayPopup', { }); }); }); </script><div style="clear:both;"></div> https://www.guildsomm.com/research/expert_guides/w/expert-guides/2551/loire-valley/revision/89Thu, 22 Jun 2023 22:02:00 GMT8277e151-5ba9-4335-93f0-6f497ffb8dc4:f8f47b07-8807-43cf-8f35-726d267b11a9GuildSomm Adminhttps://www.guildsomm.com/research/expert_guides/w/expert-guides/2551/loire-valley#commentsRevision 89 posted to Expert Guides by GuildSomm Admin on 6/22/2023 10:02:00 PM<br /> <div class="paywall-restricted"><div class="style_box"> Contents <ol> <li>History</li> <li>Loire Valley Wine Law</li> <li>The Market</li> <li>Land and Climate</li> <li>The Grapes of the Loire Valley</li> <li>Pays Nantais</li> <li>Anjou-Saumur</li> <li>Touraine</li> <li>Central Vineyards</li> <li>Central France</li> <li>Bibliography</li> </ol> </div> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Loire Valley is the third largest wine region in France, yet it is also one of the country&rsquo;s least well known. It follows the broad sweep of the Loire River for nearly 1,000 kilometers, from the mountains of the Massif Central in the center of France to the wild Atlantic coast in the northwest. The Loire and its tributaries are home to more than 50 appellations. Most are populated by small family winegrowers, many of whom have been farming the same land <span class="widow-no-wrap">for centuries.</span></span></p> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>More famous for its ch&acirc;teaux than its wine, the Loire is a region of evident history, but it is a region of experimentation and discovery as well, where respect for the past and a spirit of innovation exist side by side.</span><span lang="DE">&nbsp;</span></p> <p><a name="01"></a></p> History <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Roman officer and historian Pliny the Elder completed his Natural History in 77 CE, reflecting the world he knew in the first century, including its vineyards and wines. In this text, he mentioned that vines were growing on the banks of the Loire, evidence that this region has a vinous history spanning at least two millennia. But it was not until the sixth century that Gr&eacute;goire, the bishop of Tours, made the first reference to the vineyards in the local region of Touraine, which today includes Chinon and Vouvray. He also confirm</span><span lang="DE">ed</span><span> that vineyards were growing in the Sancerre area, writing, &ldquo;In the year 582, a late frost scorched the vines.&rdquo; The church was a driving force in the development of the Loire&rsquo;s vineyards and wine production, as it was in other parts of France and Europe, until the French Revolution.</span></p> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Loire River and its tributaries have long provided a route to market for the region&rsquo;s wines. On the western coast, close to the mouth of the river, Nantes has been an important trading hub for centuries. There is even a theory that in the 19</span></p></div><script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(function(){ jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.subscribe('paywall.ready', function (data) { jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.publish('paywall.restricted', { contentId: 'f8f47b07-8807-43cf-8f35-726d267b11a9' }); }); }); </script><script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(function(){ jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.subscribe('paywall.ready', function (data) { jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.publish('paywall.displayPopup', { }); }); }); </script><div style="clear:both;"></div> https://www.guildsomm.com/research/expert_guides/w/expert-guides/2551/loire-valley/revision/88Fri, 23 Dec 2022 15:50:57 GMT8277e151-5ba9-4335-93f0-6f497ffb8dc4:f8f47b07-8807-43cf-8f35-726d267b11a9Jonathan Eichholzhttps://www.guildsomm.com/research/expert_guides/w/expert-guides/2551/loire-valley#commentsRevision 88 posted to Expert Guides by Jonathan Eichholz on 12/23/2022 3:50:57 PM<br /> <div class="paywall-restricted"><div class="style_box"> Contents <ol> <li>History</li> <li>Loire Valley Wine Law</li> <li>The Market</li> <li>Land and Climate</li> <li>The Grapes of the Loire Valley</li> <li>Pays Nantais</li> <li>Anjou-Saumur</li> <li>Touraine</li> <li>Central Vineyards</li> <li>Central France</li> <li>Bibliography</li> </ol> </div> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Loire Valley is the third largest wine region in France, yet it is also one of the country&rsquo;s least well known. It follows the broad sweep of the Loire River for nearly 1,000 kilometers, from the mountains of the Massif Central in the center of France to the wild Atlantic coast in the northwest. The Loire and its tributaries are home to more than 50 appellations. Most are populated by small family winegrowers, many of whom have been farming the same land <span class="widow-no-wrap">for centuries.</span></span></p> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>More famous for its ch&acirc;teaux than its wine, the Loire is a region of evident history, but it is a region of experimentation and discovery as well, where respect for the past and a spirit of innovation exist side by side.</span><span lang="DE">&nbsp;</span></p> <p><a name="01"></a></p> History <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Roman officer and historian Pliny the Elder completed his Natural History in 77 CE, reflecting the world he knew in the first century, including its vineyards and wines. In this text, he mentioned that vines were growing on the banks of the Loire, evidence that this region has a vinous history spanning at least two millennia. But it was not until the sixth century that Gr&eacute;goire, the bishop of Tours, made the first reference to the vineyards in the local region of Touraine, which today includes Chinon and Vouvray. He also confirm</span><span lang="DE">ed</span><span> that vineyards were growing in the Sancerre area, writing, &ldquo;In the year 582, a late frost scorched the vines.&rdquo; The church was a driving force in the development of the Loire&rsquo;s vineyards and wine production, as it was in other parts of France and Europe, until the French Revolution.</span></p> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Loire River and its tributaries have long provided a route to market for the region&rsquo;s wines. On the western coast, close to the mouth of the river, Nantes has been an important trading hub for centuries. There is even a theory that in the 19</span></p></div><script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(function(){ jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.subscribe('paywall.ready', function (data) { jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.publish('paywall.restricted', { contentId: 'f8f47b07-8807-43cf-8f35-726d267b11a9' }); }); }); </script><script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(function(){ jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.subscribe('paywall.ready', function (data) { jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.publish('paywall.displayPopup', { }); }); }); </script><div style="clear:both;"></div> https://www.guildsomm.com/research/expert_guides/w/expert-guides/2551/loire-valley/revision/87Fri, 16 Dec 2022 22:39:39 GMT8277e151-5ba9-4335-93f0-6f497ffb8dc4:f8f47b07-8807-43cf-8f35-726d267b11a9GuildSomm Adminhttps://www.guildsomm.com/research/expert_guides/w/expert-guides/2551/loire-valley#commentsRevision 87 posted to Expert Guides by GuildSomm Admin on 12/16/2022 10:39:39 PM<br /> <div class="paywall-restricted"><div class="style_box"> Contents <ol> <li>History</li> <li>Loire Valley Wine Law</li> <li>The Market</li> <li>Land and Climate</li> <li>The Grapes of the Loire Valley</li> <li>Pays Nantais</li> <li>Anjou-Saumur</li> <li>Touraine</li> <li>Central Vineyards</li> <li>Central France</li> <li>Bibliography</li> </ol> </div> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Loire Valley is the third largest wine region in France, yet it is also one of the country&rsquo;s least well known. It follows the broad sweep of the Loire River for nearly 1,000 kilometers, from the mountains of the Massif Central in the center of France to the wild Atlantic coast in the northwest. The Loire and its tributaries are home to more than 50 appellations. Most are populated by small family winegrowers, many of whom have been farming the same land <span class="widow-no-wrap">for centuries.</span></span></p> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>More famous for its ch&acirc;teaux than its wine, the Loire is a region of evident history, but it is a region of experimentation and discovery as well, where respect for the past and a spirit of innovation exist side by side.</span><span lang="DE">&nbsp;</span></p> <p><a name="01"></a></p> History <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Roman officer and historian Pliny the Elder completed his Natural History in 77 CE, reflecting the world he knew in the first century, including its vineyards and wines. In this text, he mentioned that vines were growing on the banks of the Loire, evidence that this region has a vinous history spanning at least two millennia. But it was not until the sixth century that Gr&eacute;goire, the bishop of Tours, made the first reference to the vineyards in the local region of Touraine, which today includes Chinon and Vouvray. He also confirm</span><span lang="DE">ed</span><span> that vineyards were growing in the Sancerre area, writing, &ldquo;In the year 582, a late frost scorched the vines.&rdquo; The church was a driving force in the development of the Loire&rsquo;s vineyards and wine production, as it was in other parts of France and Europe, until the French Revolution.</span></p> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Loire River and its tributaries have long provided a route to market for the region&rsquo;s wines. On the western coast, close to the mouth of the river, Nantes has been an important trading hub for centuries. There is even a theory that in the 19</span></p></div><script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(function(){ jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.subscribe('paywall.ready', function (data) { jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.publish('paywall.restricted', { contentId: 'f8f47b07-8807-43cf-8f35-726d267b11a9' }); }); }); </script><script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(function(){ jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.subscribe('paywall.ready', function (data) { jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.publish('paywall.displayPopup', { }); }); }); </script><div style="clear:both;"></div> https://www.guildsomm.com/research/expert_guides/w/expert-guides/2551/loire-valley/revision/86Thu, 01 Dec 2022 15:14:39 GMT8277e151-5ba9-4335-93f0-6f497ffb8dc4:f8f47b07-8807-43cf-8f35-726d267b11a9Stacy Ladenburgerhttps://www.guildsomm.com/research/expert_guides/w/expert-guides/2551/loire-valley#commentsRevision 86 posted to Expert Guides by Stacy Ladenburger on 12/1/2022 3:14:39 PM<br /> <div class="paywall-restricted"><div class="style_box"> Contents <ol> <li>History</li> <li>Loire Valley Wine Law</li> <li>The Market</li> <li>Land and Climate</li> <li>The Grapes of the Loire Valley</li> <li>Pays Nantais</li> <li>Anjou-Saumur</li> <li>Touraine</li> <li>Central Vineyards</li> <li>Central France</li> <li>Bibliography</li> </ol> </div> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Loire Valley is the third largest wine region in France, yet it is also one of the country&rsquo;s least well known. It follows the broad sweep of the Loire River for nearly 1,000 kilometers, from the mountains of the Massif Central in the center of France to the wild Atlantic coast in the northwest. The Loire and its tributaries are home to more than 50 appellations. Most are populated by small family winegrowers, many of whom have been farming the same land <span class="widow-no-wrap">for centuries.</span></span></p> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>More famous for its ch&acirc;teaux than its wine, the Loire is a region of evident history, but it is a region of experimentation and discovery as well, where respect for the past and a spirit of innovation exist side by side.</span><span lang="DE">&nbsp;</span></p> <p><a name="01"></a></p> History <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Roman officer and historian Pliny the Elder completed his Natural History in 77 CE, reflecting the world he knew in the first century, including its vineyards and wines. In this text, he mentioned that vines were growing on the banks of the Loire, evidence that this region has a vinous history spanning at least two millennia. But it was not until the sixth century that Gr&eacute;goire, the bishop of Tours, made the first reference to the vineyards in the local region of Touraine, which today includes Chinon and Vouvray. He also confirm</span><span lang="DE">ed</span><span> that vineyards were growing in the Sancerre area, writing, &ldquo;In the year 582, a late frost scorched the vines.&rdquo; The church was a driving force in the development of the Loire&rsquo;s vineyards and wine production, as it was in other parts of France and Europe, until the French Revolution.</span></p> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Loire River and its tributaries have long provided a route to market for the region&rsquo;s wines. On the western coast, close to the mouth of the river, Nantes has been an important trading hub for centuries. There is even a theory that in the 19</span></p></div><script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(function(){ jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.subscribe('paywall.ready', function (data) { jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.publish('paywall.restricted', { contentId: 'f8f47b07-8807-43cf-8f35-726d267b11a9' }); }); }); </script><script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(function(){ jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.subscribe('paywall.ready', function (data) { jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.publish('paywall.displayPopup', { }); }); }); </script><div style="clear:both;"></div> https://www.guildsomm.com/research/expert_guides/w/expert-guides/2551/loire-valley/revision/85Wed, 23 Nov 2022 16:45:59 GMT8277e151-5ba9-4335-93f0-6f497ffb8dc4:f8f47b07-8807-43cf-8f35-726d267b11a9Stacy Ladenburgerhttps://www.guildsomm.com/research/expert_guides/w/expert-guides/2551/loire-valley#commentsRevision 85 posted to Expert Guides by Stacy Ladenburger on 11/23/2022 4:45:59 PM<br /> <div class="paywall-restricted"><div class="style_box"> Contents <ol> <li>History</li> <li>Loire Valley Wine Law</li> <li>The Market</li> <li>Land and Climate</li> <li>The Grapes of the Loire Valley</li> <li>Pays Nantais</li> <li>Anjou-Saumur</li> <li>Touraine</li> <li>Central Vineyards</li> <li>Central France</li> <li>Bibliography</li> </ol> </div> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Loire Valley is the third largest wine region in France, yet it is also one of the country&rsquo;s least well known. It follows the broad sweep of the Loire River for nearly 1,000 kilometers, from the mountains of the Massif Central in the center of France to the wild Atlantic coast in the northwest. The Loire and its tributaries are home to more than 50 appellations. Most are populated by small family winegrowers, many of whom have been farming the same land <span class="widow-no-wrap">for centuries.</span></span></p> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>More famous for its ch&acirc;teaux than its wine, the Loire is a region of evident history, but it is a region of experimentation and discovery as well, where respect for the past and a spirit of innovation exist side by side.</span><span lang="DE">&nbsp;</span></p> <p><a name="01"></a></p> History <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Roman officer and historian Pliny the Elder completed his Natural History in 77 CE, reflecting the world he knew in the first century, including its vineyards and wines. In this text, he mentioned that vines were growing on the banks of the Loire, evidence that this region has a vinous history spanning at least two millennia. But it was not until the sixth century that Gr&eacute;goire, the bishop of Tours, made the first reference to the vineyards in the local region of Touraine, which today includes Chinon and Vouvray. He also confirm</span><span lang="DE">ed</span><span> that vineyards were growing in the Sancerre area, writing, &ldquo;In the year 582, a late frost scorched the vines.&rdquo; The church was a driving force in the development of the Loire&rsquo;s vineyards and wine production, as it was in other parts of France and Europe, until the French Revolution.</span></p> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Loire River and its tributaries have long provided a route to market for the region&rsquo;s wines. On the western coast, close to the mouth of the river, Nantes has been an important trading hub for centuries. There is even a theory that in the 19</span></p></div><script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(function(){ jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.subscribe('paywall.ready', function (data) { jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.publish('paywall.restricted', { contentId: 'f8f47b07-8807-43cf-8f35-726d267b11a9' }); }); }); </script><script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(function(){ jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.subscribe('paywall.ready', function (data) { jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.publish('paywall.displayPopup', { }); }); }); </script><div style="clear:both;"></div> https://www.guildsomm.com/research/expert_guides/w/expert-guides/2551/loire-valley/revision/84Tue, 22 Nov 2022 20:37:10 GMT8277e151-5ba9-4335-93f0-6f497ffb8dc4:f8f47b07-8807-43cf-8f35-726d267b11a9Stacy Ladenburgerhttps://www.guildsomm.com/research/expert_guides/w/expert-guides/2551/loire-valley#commentsRevision 84 posted to Expert Guides by Stacy Ladenburger on 11/22/2022 8:37:10 PM<br /> <div class="paywall-restricted"><div class="style_box"> Contents <ol> <li>History</li> <li>Loire Valley Wine Law</li> <li>The Market</li> <li>Land and Climate</li> <li>The Grapes of the Loire Valley</li> <li>Pays Nantais</li> <li>Anjou-Saumur</li> <li>Touraine</li> <li>Central Vineyards</li> <li>Central France</li> <li>Bibliography</li> </ol> </div> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Loire Valley is the third largest wine region in France, yet it is also one of the country&rsquo;s least well known. It follows the broad sweep of the Loire River for nearly 1,000 kilometers, from the mountains of the Massif Central in the center of France to the wild Atlantic coast in the northwest. The Loire and its tributaries are home to more than 50 appellations. Most are populated by small family winegrowers, many of whom have been farming the same land <span class="widow-no-wrap">for centuries.</span></span></p> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>More famous for its ch&acirc;teaux than its wine, the Loire is a region of evident history, but it is a region of experimentation and discovery as well, where respect for the past and a spirit of innovation exist side by side.</span><span lang="DE">&nbsp;</span></p> <p><a name="01"></a></p> History <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Roman officer and historian Pliny the Elder completed his Natural History in 77 CE, reflecting the world he knew in the first century, including its vineyards and wines. In this text, he mentioned that vines were growing on the banks of the Loire, evidence that this region has a vinous history spanning at least two millennia. But it was not until the sixth century that Gr&eacute;goire, the bishop of Tours, made the first reference to the vineyards in the local region of Touraine, which today includes Chinon and Vouvray. He also confirm</span><span lang="DE">ed</span><span> that vineyards were growing in the Sancerre area, writing, &ldquo;In the year 582, a late frost scorched the vines.&rdquo; The church was a driving force in the development of the Loire&rsquo;s vineyards and wine production, as it was in other parts of France and Europe, until the French Revolution.</span></p> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Loire River and its tributaries have long provided a route to market for the region&rsquo;s wines. On the western coast, close to the mouth of the river, Nantes has been an important trading hub for centuries. There is even a theory that in the 19</span></p></div><script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(function(){ jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.subscribe('paywall.ready', function (data) { jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.publish('paywall.restricted', { contentId: 'f8f47b07-8807-43cf-8f35-726d267b11a9' }); }); }); </script><script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(function(){ jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.subscribe('paywall.ready', function (data) { jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.publish('paywall.displayPopup', { }); }); }); </script><div style="clear:both;"></div> https://www.guildsomm.com/research/expert_guides/w/expert-guides/2551/loire-valley/revision/83Tue, 22 Nov 2022 20:35:21 GMT8277e151-5ba9-4335-93f0-6f497ffb8dc4:f8f47b07-8807-43cf-8f35-726d267b11a9Stacy Ladenburgerhttps://www.guildsomm.com/research/expert_guides/w/expert-guides/2551/loire-valley#commentsRevision 83 posted to Expert Guides by Stacy Ladenburger on 11/22/2022 8:35:21 PM<br /> <div class="paywall-restricted"><div class="style_box"> Contents <ol> <li>History</li> <li>Loire Valley Wine Law</li> <li>The Market</li> <li>Land and Climate</li> <li>The Grapes of the Loire Valley</li> <li>Pays Nantais</li> <li>Anjou-Saumur</li> <li>Touraine</li> <li>Central Vineyards</li> <li>Central France</li> <li>Bibliography</li> </ol> </div> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Loire Valley is the third largest wine region in France, yet it is also one of the country&rsquo;s least well known. It follows the broad sweep of the Loire River for nearly 1,000 kilometers, from the mountains of the Massif Central in the center of France to the wild Atlantic coast in the northwest. The Loire and its tributaries are home to more than 50 appellations. Most are populated by small family winegrowers, many of whom have been farming the same land <span class="widow-no-wrap">for centuries.</span></span></p> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>More famous for its ch&acirc;teaux than its wine, the Loire is a region of evident history, but it is a region of experimentation and discovery as well, where respect for the past and a spirit of innovation exist side by side.</span><span lang="DE">&nbsp;</span></p> <p><a name="01"></a></p> History <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Roman officer and historian Pliny the Elder completed his Natural History in 77 CE, reflecting the world he knew in the first century, including its vineyards and wines. In this text, he mentioned that vines were growing on the banks of the Loire, evidence that this region has a vinous history spanning at least two millennia. But it was not until the sixth century that Gr&eacute;goire, the bishop of Tours, made the first reference to the vineyards in the local region of Touraine, which today includes Chinon and Vouvray. He also confirm</span><span lang="DE">ed</span><span> that vineyards were growing in the Sancerre area, writing, &ldquo;In the year 582, a late frost scorched the vines.&rdquo; The church was a driving force in the development of the Loire&rsquo;s vineyards and wine production, as it was in other parts of France and Europe, until the French Revolution.</span></p> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Loire River and its tributaries have long provided a route to market for the region&rsquo;s wines. On the western coast, close to the mouth of the river, Nantes has been an important trading hub for centuries. There is even a theory that in the 19</span></p></div><script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(function(){ jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.subscribe('paywall.ready', function (data) { jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.publish('paywall.restricted', { contentId: 'f8f47b07-8807-43cf-8f35-726d267b11a9' }); }); }); </script><script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(function(){ jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.subscribe('paywall.ready', function (data) { jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.publish('paywall.displayPopup', { }); }); }); </script><div style="clear:both;"></div> https://www.guildsomm.com/research/expert_guides/w/expert-guides/2551/loire-valley/revision/82Tue, 22 Nov 2022 20:32:42 GMT8277e151-5ba9-4335-93f0-6f497ffb8dc4:f8f47b07-8807-43cf-8f35-726d267b11a9Stacy Ladenburgerhttps://www.guildsomm.com/research/expert_guides/w/expert-guides/2551/loire-valley#commentsRevision 82 posted to Expert Guides by Stacy Ladenburger on 11/22/2022 8:32:42 PM<br /> <div class="paywall-restricted"><div class="style_box"> Contents <ol> <li>History</li> <li>Loire Valley Wine Law</li> <li>The Market</li> <li>Land and Climate</li> <li>The Grapes of the Loire Valley</li> <li>Pays Nantais</li> <li>Anjou-Saumur</li> <li>Touraine</li> <li>Central Vineyards</li> <li>Central France</li> <li>Bibliography</li> </ol> </div> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Loire Valley is the third largest wine region in France, yet it is also one of the country&rsquo;s least well known. It follows the broad sweep of the Loire River for nearly 1,000 kilometers, from the mountains of the Massif Central in the center of France to the wild Atlantic coast in the northwest. The Loire and its tributaries are home to more than 50 appellations. Most are populated by small family winegrowers, many of whom have been farming the same land <span class="widow-no-wrap">for centuries.</span></span></p> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>More famous for its ch&acirc;teaux than its wine, the Loire is a region of evident history, but it is a region of experimentation and discovery as well, where respect for the past and a spirit of innovation exist side by side.</span><span lang="DE">&nbsp;</span></p> <p><a name="01"></a></p> History <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Roman officer and historian Pliny the Elder completed his Natural History in 77 CE, reflecting the world he knew in the first century, including its vineyards and wines. In this text, he mentioned that vines were growing on the banks of the Loire, evidence that this region has a vinous history spanning at least two millennia. But it was not until the sixth century that Gr&eacute;goire, the bishop of Tours, made the first reference to the vineyards in the local region of Touraine, which today includes Chinon and Vouvray. He also confirm</span><span lang="DE">ed</span><span> that vineyards were growing in the Sancerre area, writing, &ldquo;In the year 582, a late frost scorched the vines.&rdquo; The church was a driving force in the development of the Loire&rsquo;s vineyards and wine production, as it was in other parts of France and Europe, until the French Revolution.</span></p> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Loire River and its tributaries have long provided a route to market for the region&rsquo;s wines. On the western coast, close to the mouth of the river, Nantes has been an important trading hub for centuries. There is even a theory that in the 19</span></p></div><script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(function(){ jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.subscribe('paywall.ready', function (data) { jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.publish('paywall.restricted', { contentId: 'f8f47b07-8807-43cf-8f35-726d267b11a9' }); }); }); </script><script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(function(){ jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.subscribe('paywall.ready', function (data) { jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.publish('paywall.displayPopup', { }); }); }); </script><div style="clear:both;"></div> https://www.guildsomm.com/research/expert_guides/w/expert-guides/2551/loire-valley/revision/81Tue, 22 Nov 2022 16:27:39 GMT8277e151-5ba9-4335-93f0-6f497ffb8dc4:f8f47b07-8807-43cf-8f35-726d267b11a9Stacy Ladenburgerhttps://www.guildsomm.com/research/expert_guides/w/expert-guides/2551/loire-valley#commentsRevision 81 posted to Expert Guides by Stacy Ladenburger on 11/22/2022 4:27:39 PM<br /> <div class="paywall-restricted"><div class="style_box"> Contents <ol> <li>History</li> <li>Loire Valley Wine Law</li> <li>The Market</li> <li>Land and Climate</li> <li>The Grapes of the Loire Valley</li> <li>Pays Nantais</li> <li>Anjou-Saumur</li> <li>Touraine</li> <li>Central Vineyards</li> <li>Central France</li> <li>Bibliography</li> </ol> </div> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Loire Valley is the third largest wine region in France, yet it is also one of the country&rsquo;s least well known. It follows the broad sweep of the Loire River for nearly 1,000 kilometers, from the mountains of the Massif Central in the center of France to the wild Atlantic coast in the northwest. The Loire and its tributaries are home to more than 50 appellations. Most are populated by small family winegrowers, many of whom have been farming the same land <span class="widow-no-wrap">for centuries.</span></span></p> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>More famous for its ch&acirc;teaux than its wine, the Loire is a region of evident history, but it is a region of experimentation and discovery as well, where respect for the past and a spirit of innovation exist side by side.</span><span lang="DE">&nbsp;</span></p> <p><a name="01"></a></p> History <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Roman officer and historian Pliny the Elder completed his Natural History in 77 CE, reflecting the world he knew in the first century, including its vineyards and wines. In this text, he mentioned that vines were growing on the banks of the Loire, evidence that this region has a vinous history spanning at least two millennia. But it was not until the sixth century that Gr&eacute;goire, the bishop of Tours, made the first reference to the vineyards in the local region of Touraine, which today includes Chinon and Vouvray. He also confirm</span><span lang="DE">ed</span><span> that vineyards were growing in the Sancerre area, writing, &ldquo;In the year 582, a late frost scorched the vines.&rdquo; The church was a driving force in the development of the Loire&rsquo;s vineyards and wine production, as it was in other parts of France and Europe, until the French Revolution.</span></p> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Loire River and its tributaries have long provided a route to market for the region&rsquo;s wines. On the western coast, close to the mouth of the river, Nantes has been an important trading hub for centuries. There is even a theory that in the 19</span></p></div><script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(function(){ jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.subscribe('paywall.ready', function (data) { jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.publish('paywall.restricted', { contentId: 'f8f47b07-8807-43cf-8f35-726d267b11a9' }); }); }); </script><script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(function(){ jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.subscribe('paywall.ready', function (data) { jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.publish('paywall.displayPopup', { }); }); }); </script><div style="clear:both;"></div> https://www.guildsomm.com/research/expert_guides/w/expert-guides/2551/loire-valley/revision/80Tue, 22 Nov 2022 16:26:45 GMT8277e151-5ba9-4335-93f0-6f497ffb8dc4:f8f47b07-8807-43cf-8f35-726d267b11a9Stacy Ladenburgerhttps://www.guildsomm.com/research/expert_guides/w/expert-guides/2551/loire-valley#commentsRevision 80 posted to Expert Guides by Stacy Ladenburger on 11/22/2022 4:26:45 PM<br /> <div class="paywall-restricted"><div class="style_box"> Contents <ol> <li>History</li> <li>Loire Valley Wine Law</li> <li>The Market</li> <li>Land and Climate</li> <li>The Grapes of the Loire Valley</li> <li>Pays Nantais</li> <li>Anjou-Saumur</li> <li>Touraine</li> <li>Central Vineyards</li> <li>Central France</li> <li>Bibliography</li> </ol> </div> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Loire Valley is the third largest wine region in France, yet it is also one of the country&rsquo;s least well known. It follows the broad sweep of the Loire River for nearly 1,000 kilometers, from the mountains of the Massif Central in the center of France to the wild Atlantic coast in the northwest. The Loire and its tributaries are home to more than 50 appellations. Most are populated by small family winegrowers, many of whom have been farming the same land <span class="widow-no-wrap">for centuries.</span></span></p> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>More famous for its ch&acirc;teaux than its wine, the Loire is a region of evident history, but it is a region of experimentation and discovery as well, where respect for the past and a spirit of innovation exist side by side.</span><span lang="DE">&nbsp;</span></p> <p><a name="01"></a></p> History <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Roman officer and historian Pliny the Elder completed his Natural History in 77 CE, reflecting the world he knew in the first century, including its vineyards and wines. In this text, he mentioned that vines were growing on the banks of the Loire, evidence that this region has a vinous history spanning at least two millennia. But it was not until the sixth century that Gr&eacute;goire, the bishop of Tours, made the first reference to the vineyards in the local region of Touraine, which today includes Chinon and Vouvray. He also confirm</span><span lang="DE">ed</span><span> that vineyards were growing in the Sancerre area, writing, &ldquo;In the year 582, a late frost scorched the vines.&rdquo; The church was a driving force in the development of the Loire&rsquo;s vineyards and wine production, as it was in other parts of France and Europe, until the French Revolution.</span></p> <p class="Body" style="text-align:justify;"><span>The Loire River and its tributaries have long provided a route to market for the region&rsquo;s wines. On the western coast, close to the mouth of the river, Nantes has been an important trading hub for centuries. There is even a theory that in the 19</span></p></div><script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(function(){ jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.subscribe('paywall.ready', function (data) { jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.publish('paywall.restricted', { contentId: 'f8f47b07-8807-43cf-8f35-726d267b11a9' }); }); }); </script><script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(function(){ jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.subscribe('paywall.ready', function (data) { jQuery.telligent.evolution.messaging.publish('paywall.displayPopup', { }); }); }); </script><div style="clear:both;"></div>