In the northwest of France, the Loire vineyard extends from the Massif Central to Nantes over some 70,000 hectares of vines. It is known for the Chinon, Bourgueil and Pouilly-Fumé appellations, among others. The AOC Coteaux du Layon is also found there.
The appellation area of this AOC extends over the territory of 27 communes on both banks of the Layon in the Anjou vineyard over some 1,650 hectares of soils mainly composed of schist and sandstone. Chenin vines (Pineau de la Loire), subject to the temperate climate and oceanic influences of this geographical area, are planted in this appellation and produce sweet or liqueur white wines with very good ageing potential (40 years and more for some great vintages). These wines, balanced between residual sugars and acidity, are known for their great aromatic complexity and their evolution over time. They express notes of flowers such as hawthorn or rose as well as fruits (peach and pear), exotic fruits (mango, guava) and dried fruits, minerality then citrus wood, honey or even bergamot.
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AOC Coteaux-du-Layon
AOC Coteaux-du-Layon: everything you need to know about the wines of this appellation
History of the AOC Coteaux-du-Layon appellation
The AOC Coteaux-du-Layon appellation is located in the Loire Valley, south of Angers. It takes its name from the Layon River, a tributary of the Loire. Known for its exceptional sweet white wines, the AOC Coteaux-du-Layon appellation was officially recognized in 1950. These wines are the result of the encounter between Chenin and “botrytis cinerea”, also called noble rot, and allows for an exceptional concentration of sugar and aromas.
Climate and terroir of the AOC Coteaux-du-Layon appellation
Climate: The climate of the AOC Coteaux-du-Layon appellation is greatly influenced by the Loire and the Layon. This unique terroir offers ideal conditions for the development of botrytis thanks to morning mists followed by sunny afternoons.
Soils: The soils of Coteaux-du-Layon are composed of schists and eruptive rocks, which gives the wines a beautiful minerality.
Chenin: the essential grape variety of the AOC Coteaux-du-Layon appellation
The AOC Coteaux-du-Layon appellation, whether semi-dry, sweet or liqueur, is made exclusively from Chenin blanc. Chenin, also called Pineau de la Loire, is an emblematic grape variety of the Loire (and more precisely of Anjou-Saumur) which, when affected by noble rot (Botrytis), produces wines that are both rich and complex, while retaining a beautiful acidity.
Style of AOC Coteaux-du-Layon wines
Appearance: Golden color, bright with amber highlights with age.
Nose: AOC Coteaux-du-Layon white wines express intense aromas of white-fleshed fruits, candied fruits (candied citrus peel), exotic fruits, honey and sweet spices.
Palate: The wines of the AOC Coteaux-du-Layon appellation are characterized by their richness, smoothness and great length in the mouth. Their beautiful acidity brings a freshness that wonderfully balances the sweetness and complexity of the wine.
Serving temperature: 10°-12°
Aging potential: 5 to 20 years, or even more depending on the estate and vintage
The best food and wine pairings with an AOC Coteaux-du-Layon wine
Here are some ideas for creating a perfect food and wine pairing with a bottle of sweet white wine from an estate or château in AOC Coteaux-du-Layon white:
Foie gras
Tarte Tatin
Blue cheeses (Roquefort, Fourme d’Ambert)
Flambé pineapple
Sweet and savoury Asian cuisine