Loire

This AC region was named after the commune of Roanne on the upper reaches of the Loire river, bordering on the Massif Central mountains in central France. It was classified as a VDQS in 1955, and became an AC in 1994. Direct canal and river connections helped the wine gain great popularity in Paris in the 19th century. The vineyard area totals just on 200 hectares in 14 communes along the left bank of the Loire river. The AC applies to red and rosé wines made from Gamay. The red wine is similar to Beaujolais. Well-known producers include Domaine du Fontenay, Domaine du Pavillon and Domaine Serol.