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March Virtual Tasting

Wines from the Loire Valley

March 9, 2022 5:00 pm (MDT) / 7:00 pm (EST)

The Loire Valley is a key wine region in western France. It follows the course of the Loire River on its long journey through the heart of France, from the inland hills of Auvergne to the plains on the French Atlantic coast near Nantes (Muscadet country). 

As the third largest appellation in France, the Loire Valley is important in terms of both quantity and quality wine production. The region makes a vast quantity of everyday wines, as well as some of France’s very finest and highest quality.

White wines account for most of the wines produced in the Loire, but reds are of increasingly high quality, and of increasing importance as consumer preferences
continue to move toward red wines. The number one red-wine variety is unquestionably Cabernet Franc, the grape behind the reds of Chinon. 

Purchase the Wine

I have selected wines from Total Wines and More made by a single producer – Bourgrier. You might not be able to secure these same wines in your area. Do not worry. It is more important to get wines from the specific growing areas – Muscadet, Vouvray, Chinon.
Also my wines are priced very moderately so look for wines from these 3 areas that are priced between $15 – $25/bottle.

Muscade Loire Wine

Noël Bougrier's Muscadet

Noël Bougrier’s Muscadet is a classic example of the appellation, with crisp, fresh citrus and apple notes paired with a bright acidity. This clean, easy-drinking white is a traditional match with oysters and other shellfish.

Rhone White

Bougrier "V" Vouvray

Bottled by Jean Claude Bougrier at his Loire Estate, this Vouvray is medium-bodied. Rich flavors of cream and hazelnut contribute to the slight
sweetness that is balanced by acidity. Excellent with Fontina Cheeses & Fruit.

Torrentes

Bougrier Chinon

Very youthful bright medium-ruby color. Aromas suggest blackberry, spice and raspberry. Dry, quite fruity with very light tannins. This would be perfect to pair with any red meat dinner!

Try Some Food with your Wines!

Find out what makes wines from the Loire Valley some of the most food friendly in the world.
Have fun with a variety of foods. You can start with some of the following suggestions:
With White Wines
• Clams
• Oysters
• Sardines
• Salads
• Shrimp
• Goat Cheese
• Trout
• Sushi
• Fried Foods
With Chinon (red wine from Cabernet Franc):
• Chicken, Duck, Game Birds
• Hamburgers
• Lamb
• Pork
• Salami
• Grilled Salmon
• Grilled Shrimp
• Roasted Pepper

Preparation for the Event

  • Tasting Glasses – you will need 3 identical clear wine glasses with stems.
  • Environment
    • A computer equipped with a camera and speakers (and/or a headset)
    • A pencil or pen to complete your tasting form
    • A white background for evaluation. This can be a napkin or a blank piece of paper
    • A glass of water
    • A spit bucket, wine opener (or Coravin if you have one)
  • Print out the tasting form and the tasting reference.