Today, we invite you to join us in discovering theAOC Montlouis-sur-Loire, a true gem of the Loire Valley. With wines exclusively made from the Chenin grape variety, the 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 surely has something to captivate 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 millennia-old winemaking tradition.Its history begins in Antiquity, a period when the Romans planted the first vineyards in the region, particularly 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 southern 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 castles of Amboise, Blois, and Chenonceau. At that time, the regional viticulture prospered, and the reputation of local wines developed.
In the 17th century, the Loire boatmen began to export wines to Paris and England. At that time, Montlouis wines were not yet specifically mentioned, as the vineyard was still overshadowed by other renowned neighboring names like Vouvray or Chinon.
It was not until the end of the 19th century, and especially at the beginning of the 20th, that the winemakers of Montlouis began to assert their own identity. Following this, Montlouis finally obtained the status of Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée (AOC) in 1938. This recognition marked a decisive turning point, allowing the winemakers to highlight a unique terroir.
Today, the AOC Montlouis-sur-Loire covers approximately 500 hectares and, although still less known to the general public than its neighbor Vouvray, its vineyard has been making a significant mark in the French wine landscape for a few decades. Indeed, starting from the 1980s-1990s, renowned winemakers like Jacky Blot (Domaine de la Taille aux Loups) or François Chidaine helped to give a new impetus to the appellation.
Furthermore, the diversification of wine styles (dry, sweet, sparkling) within the AOP since the early 2000s has also allowed for a certain recognition among sommeliers and wine merchants.
The Chenin: the sole and unique grape variety of the AOC Montlouis-sur-Loire
Soils and climate of the Montlouis-sur-Loire appellation
The Montlouis terroir is based on a tuffeau subsoil, a famous limestone of the region. A true natural treasure, it acts as a regulator, balancing the supply of water and minerals for the vine. This particularity creates ideal conditions for the Chenin, the unique grape variety of the appellation.
The soils of the appellation are mostly composed of clays, sands, and flint, thus providing a mineral richness that promotes the optimal ripening of the grapes.The vineyards are situated between 50m and 100m above sea level.
From a climatic perspective, the Montlouis-sur-Loire appellation benefits from a temperate climate strongly influenced by the Loire. Acting as a thermal regulator, the river indeed softens the harshness of winter while moderating the intense summer heat.
Furthermore, moderate rainfall and rare frost episodes 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 AOC Montlouis-sur-Loire
The wines of Montlouis-sur-Loire are exclusively made 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
The sparkling wines of Montlouis represent 50% of the local production. These 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 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), and a hint of brioche charm us from the first sip.
Festive and sparkling, the effervescents of Montlouis-sur-Loire are perfect for convivial moments. Ideal for appetizers and hors d'oeuvres, they add a touch of cheer to every occasion. Serve them well chilled, between 8-10 °C, to enjoy their brilliant effervescence !
Dry white wines
The dry white wines of Montlouis-sur-Loire represent 30% of the appellation's production and are distinguished by their tension and freshness.
On the palate, their natural vivacity is accompanied by refined fruity aromas evolving on citrus, pear, peach, or even white flowers. A hint of honey and mineral notes complete the panorama.
The dry whites 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 more opulent wines, a slightly warmer service can be considered.
Sushi and dry white wines from Montlouis-sur-Loire : the perfect pairing
The semi-dry wines
The semi-dry whites represent 15% of Montlouis production. With a residual sugar content between 4 and 12 g/L, these cuvées are distinguished by a balance between indulgence and freshness.
This type of wine indeed highlights ripe fruit flavors (quince, pear, apricot), exotic fruits (mango, pineapple), or even 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 a beautiful structure and remarkable length.
Thanks to their subtle balance, the semi-dry wines pair wonderfully well with semi-cooked foie gras, sautéed shrimp or langoustines, or goat cheeses like Sainte-Maure, as well as sweet and savory dishes.
To reveal all their aromas, we recommend serving these types of wines at a cool temperature, also around 8 to 10°C.
Sweet and dessert wines
Sweet and dessert 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 past the usual peak of ripeness, in order to concentrate the sugars and aromas.
In certain plots and certain 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 dessert wines of the appellation offer an explosion of aromas on the palate: honey, dried apricot, exotic fruits, and marmalade blend harmoniously. These cuvées also have a magnificent aging potential.
From a food and wine pairing perspective, these wines shine as much as an aperitif as they do at dessert time. They will indeed 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 Montlouis wines: a divine pairing!
The best wines of the AOC Montlouis-sur-Loire
The AOC Montlouis-sur-Loire is full of magnificent gems like the François Chidaine estate, La Grange Tiphaine, and Le Rocher des Violettes.
Nevertheless,
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 prioritizes environmentally friendly viticulture, with a biological approach and manual harvesting, ensuring a true expression of the terroir.
It is particularly renowned for its exceptionally fine dry white wines, elegant sparkling wines, and refined sweet wines, all with excellent aging potential. Go ahead, you won't be disappointed by this reliable choice!
Our journey to the heart of the AOC Montlouis-sur-Loire is coming to an end. As you have understood, this appellation reveals wines of great finesse, ideal for all occasions. To further your discovery, feel free to explore our exclusive selections on
