Today, we invite you to join us in discovering the Montlouis-sur-Loire AOC, a true gem of the Loire Valley. With its wines made exclusively from the Chenin grape variety, this Loire vineyard is an invitation to savor the richness of an exceptional terroir.
Whether you are a fan of dry, sweet, or sparkling white wines, this appellation is sure to have something to charm you. So, ready to discover one of the wonders of the Loire?
Summary
History of the Montlouis-sur-Loire appellation
Located in the heart of the Loire Valley, the Montlouis-sur-Loire AOC is part of a thousand-year-old winemaking tradition. Its history begins as early as Antiquity, a period when the Romans planted the first vines in the region, notably on the tuffeau (chalk) plateau of the area.
Then, during the Middle Ages, the monks of the local abbeys played a key role in the development of the vineyard. The south bank of the Loire, where Montlouis is located, then specialized in quality white wines. At that time, and notably thanks to its river, the region became an important commercial artery.
During the Renaissance, Montlouis benefited from its proximity to the royal court, notably with the châteaux of Amboise, Blois, and Chenonceau. At that time, regional viticulture prospered and the reputation of local wines grew.
In the 17th century, the Loire boatmen began to export the wines to Paris and England. At that time, people did not yet speak specifically of Montlouis wines; the vineyard still remained in the shadow of other renowned neighboring names such as Vouvray or Chinon.
It was only from the end of the 19th century, and especially at the beginning of the 20th century, that the winemakers of Montlouis began to claim their own identity. Following this, Montlouis finally obtained its Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée (AOC) status in 1938. This recognition marked a decisive turning point, allowing winemakers to promote a unique terroir.
Today, the Montlouis-sur-Loire AOC covers approximately 500 hectares, and although it still remains less known to the general public than its neighbor Vouvray, its vineyard has, for several decades, secured a prominent place in the French wine landscape.Indeed, from the 1980s-1990s onwards, renowned winemakers such as Jacky Blot (Domaine de la Taille aux Loups) or François Chidaine gave new momentum to the appellation.
Furthermore, the diversification of wine styles (dry, sweet, sparkling) within the AOP since the early 2000s has also contributed to increased recognition among sommeliers and wine merchants.
Chenin: the sole and unique grape variety of the Montlouis-sur-Loire AOC
Soils and climate of the Montlouis-sur-Loire appellation
The terroir of Montlouis is based on a tuffeau subsoil, the region’s famous limestone. This true natural treasure acts as a regulator, balancing the supply of water and minerals to the vine.This particularity creates ideal conditions for the Chenin, the unique grape variety of the appellation.
The soils of the appellation are mainly composed of clay, sand, and flint, thus providing a mineral richness that promotes optimal ripening of the grapes. The vines are planted between 50m and 100m in altitude.
From a climatic point of view, the Montlouis-sur-Loire appellation benefits from a temperate climate strongly influenced by the Loire. Acting as a thermal regulator, the river softens the harshness of winter while moderating the intense summer heat.
Furthermore, moderate rainfall and rare episodes of frost complete this natural setting, thus offering particularly favorable conditions for vine cultivation.
Map of the terroirs of the Montlouis-sur-Loire appellation
The wines of the Montlouis-sur-Loire AOC
The wines of Montlouis-sur-Loire are made exclusively from the Chenin grape variety, also known as Pineau de la Loire. This versatile variety allows for the creation of an incredible range of styles.
Sparkling wines
Sparkling wines from Montlouis account for 50% of local production. These wines are made using the traditional method (the same as for Champagne) and therefore undergo a second fermentation in the bottle as well as extended aging on the lees.
Their delicate bubbles captivate with their finesse and freshness and convey a remarkable aromatic complexity. Aromas of green apple, citrus, pear, dried fruits (almond, hazelnut), as well as a hint of brioche, delight us from the very first sip.
Festive and sparkling, the sparkling wines of Montlouis-sur-Loire are perfect for convivial moments. Ideal for aperitifs and appetizers, they add a touch of cheerfulness to every occasion. Serve them well chilled, between 8-10°C, to enjoy their vibrant effervescence !
Dry white wines
The dry white wines of Montlouis-sur-Loire represent 30% of the appellation's production and stand out for their tension and freshness.
On the palate, their natural liveliness is accompanied by refined fruity aromas evolving towards citrus, pear, peach, or even white flowers. A touch of honey as well as mineral notes complete the profile.
The dry white wines of Montlouis-sur-Loire pair perfectly with seafood, grilled fish, or even sushi. To fully enjoy them, serve at a temperature between 8 and 10°C. For the most opulent wines, a slightly warmer serving temperature may be considered.
Sushi and dry white wines from Montlouis-sur-Loire : the perfect pairing
Off-dry wines
Off-dry white wines represent 15% of Montlouis production. With a residual sugar content between 4 and 12 g/L, these cuvées stand out for a balance between indulgentroundness and freshness.
This type of wine indeed highlights flavors of ripe fruits (quince, pear, apricot), exotic fruits (mango, pineapple), as well as floral aromas (acacia, linden, honeysuckle). Honeyed and mineral notes are also present during tasting. Their roundness on the palate is always counterbalanced by the characteristic acidity of Chenin, giving them beautiful structure and remarkable length.
Thanks to their subtle balance, demi-secs pair wonderfully with semi-cooked foie gras, sautéed shrimp or langoustines, or goat cheeses such as Sainte-Maure, as well as sweet and savory dishes.
In order to reveal all their aromas, we recommend serving this type of wine at a cool temperature, also around 8 to 10°C.
Sweet wines
Sweet wines currently represent 5% of local production. Here, the sugars are more pronounced but very often beautifully balanced by the natural acidity of Chenin.
For this type of wine, the harvest is later and the winemakers leave the grapes on the vine until they are fully ripe, often well after the usual peak of ripeness, in order to concentrate the sugars and aromas.
In certain plots and in some vintages, the Botrytis Cinerea fungus also comes into play by dehydrating the grapes and increasing their concentration of sugar and aromas.
Rich and intense, the sweet and mellow wines of the appellation offer an explosion of aromas on the palate: honey, dried apricot, exotic fruits, and marmalade blend together harmoniously. These cuvées also possess a magnificent aging potential.
From a food and wine pairing perspective, these wines shine both as an aperitif and at dessert time. They will enhance both foie gras and caramelized pear tart. Their velvety texture and captivating flavors are best enjoyed at a temperature between 8 and 10°C.
Pear tart and sweet wines from Montlouis: a divine pairing!
The best wines from the Montlouis-sur-Loire AOC
The Montlouis-sur-Loire AOC is full of wonderful gems such as Domaine François Chidaine, La Grange Tiphaine, and Le Rocher des Violettes.
Nevertheless, La Cave Éclairée invites you here to discover another renowned estate of the appellation : the Domaine de la Taille aux Loups.
Located in the heart of the Montlouis-sur-Loire appellation, the estate is indeed one of the jewels of the Loire Valley. Founded and brought to its peak by Jacky Blot, the property has been managed by his son Jean-Philippe since 2023. Spanning 45 hectares exclusively cultivated with Chenin, the vines benefit from diverse terroirs, combining clay-limestone and sandy soils, giving the wines remarkable purity and complexity. The estate favors environmentally friendly viticulture, with a biological approach and manual harvesting, ensuring a true expression of the terroir.
It is particularly renowned for its exceptionally refined dry white wines, its elegant sparkling wines, as well as its sophisticated sweet wines, all with excellent aging potential. Go for it, you won’t be disappointed by this safe bet!
Our journey to the heart of the Montlouis-sur-Loire AOC is coming to an end. As you have understood, this appellation reveals wines of great finesse, ideal for any occasion. To further your discovery, feel free to explore our exclusive selections on La Cave Éclairée !
