Loire

This appellation is named after the city of the same name, it lies on the left bank of the Loire river, and is an enclave in the north-east of the Touraine region. This was previously a VDQS region, AC classification was awarded in 1993. The total potential vineyard area is around 2.000 hectares, of which only around 500 hectares are currently in production. The red wines are blends made from Gamay (40 to 65%), Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and (until the 2000 vintage) Cabernet Sauvignon. The rosé wines are made from Gamay (minimum of 50%), Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Pineau d´Aunis and Pinot Gris. The white wines are made from Sauvignon Blanc (65 to 80%), Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc and Arbois. Well-known producers include, among other, François Gazin, Jean-Michel Courtioux, Domaine de la Desoucherie, Domaine de la Gaudronnière, Domaine Maison Pere et Fils, Domaine des Huards and Domaine Sauger. The AC Cour-Cheverny was also created in 1993, and has a total vineyard area of 45 hectares located in the commune of the same name as well as in neighbouring communes. It is applicable to white wines made from the indigenous variety Romorantin.