AOC Vouvray

History of the AOC Vouvray Appellation

The AOC Vouvray is rooted in the rolling landscapes of the Loire Valley, boasting a rich winemaking heritage dating back to the 4th century. The Vouvray vineyard was founded in 372 by Saint Martin and the monks of the Marmoutier monastery. Even today, the Vouvray region is dotted with caves carved into tuffeau limestone, providing ideal conditions for wine maturation. Officially recognized in 1936, this appellation is renowned for the exceptional quality of its dry, sweet, and sparkling white wines, all made from Chenin Blanc (also known as Pineau de la Loire).

Climate and Terroir of the AOC Vouvray Appellation

Climate: The AOC Vouvray benefits from a moderately continental climate, influenced by Atlantic breezes that temper temperature variations and promote slow grape maturation.

Soils: The terroirs of Vouvray are primarily composed of tuffeau, a local limestone that contributes to the distinctive minerality of the wines. This soil is complemented by clays, flints, and gravels, providing excellent drainage and ideal conditions for Chenin Blanc.

Chenin Blanc: The Signature Grape of the AOC Vouvray Appellation

Chenin Blanc is the flagship grape of many vineyards in the Loire Valley and is fully expressed within the AOC Vouvray appellation. Its versatility allows for the production of a range of wines from dry to sweet, including sparkling wines. Its ability to meticulously reflect the minerality of its terroir makes each Vouvray parcel unique, offering a distinct expression of the grape variety.

Style of AOC Vouvray Wines

Dry White Wine: These wines present a pale yellow color with green highlights. On the nose, they offer aromas of green apple, quince, and often a hint of minerality from the limestone terroir. On the palate, the wine is lively and fresh, with a beautiful tension and a clean finish.

Sweet White Wine: With a golden color, these mellow or semi-sweet wines reveal intense aromas of honey, apricot, and candied fruits. On the palate, they are opulent and sweet, while maintaining a beautiful acidity that preserves their freshness.

Sparkling White Wine: These wines exhibit fine and persistent bubbles and a pale gold color. The nose is dominated by notes of white fruits and flowers, while the palate remains light and refreshing with an elegantly lively finish.

Best Food Pairings with AOC Vouvray Wines

Here are our recommendations for the best food pairings with a bottle of Loire white wine from an AOC Vouvray domain or chateau, whether dry, sweet, or sparkling:

• Dry Vouvray: Parsley frogs, cheese (Brillat-Savarin, goat cheese)
• Sweet Vouvray: Bleu d'Auvergne cheese, Nantes cake
• Sparkling Vouvray: Aperitif, oysters, smoked salmon toast