Anjou wine

Anjou Wine

Map of the Loire Valley vineyards

Anjou wine refers to the wines produced in the Anjou region, located in the Loire Valley of France. This region is renowned for its diverse range of wines, including red, white, and rosé varieties, each with distinct characteristics influenced by the local terroir.

Geography and Climate

The Anjou wine region is situated in the western part of the Loire Valley, encompassing the Maine-et-Loire department and parts of the Deux-Sèvres and Vienne departments. The region benefits from a temperate maritime climate, with the Loire River playing a significant role in moderating temperatures and providing a unique microclimate ideal for viticulture.

Grape Varieties

Chenin Blanc grapes, a key variety in Anjou wines

Anjou is known for its diverse grape varieties. The primary white grape is Chenin Blanc, which is used to produce a range of wine styles from dry to sweet. For red wines, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon are predominant, while Grolleau and Gamay are also cultivated, particularly for rosé wines.

Wine Styles

Anjou wines are celebrated for their variety and quality. The region produces several AOC wines, each with unique characteristics:

Anjou Blanc

Anjou Blanc is primarily made from Chenin Blanc grapes. These wines can range from dry to sweet, with flavors of apple, pear, and honey, often exhibiting a mineral quality from the region's schist soils.

Anjou Rouge

Anjou Rouge wines are typically made from Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. These wines are known for their vibrant red fruit flavors, with notes of raspberry and cherry, and a subtle earthiness.

Anjou Rosé

Rosé and Cabernet d'Anjou wines

Anjou is famous for its rosé wines, particularly Rosé d'Anjou and Cabernet d'Anjou. Rosé d'Anjou is usually semi-sweet, made from Grolleau and other local varieties, while Cabernet d'Anjou is sweeter, made from Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Sweet Wines

The region also produces renowned sweet wines, such as those from the Coteaux du Layon and Bonnezeaux appellations. These wines are made from late-harvested Chenin Blanc grapes, often affected by noble rot, resulting in rich, honeyed wines with complex flavors.

Viticulture and Winemaking

Vineyards in the Layon Valley

The vineyards of Anjou are planted on a variety of soils, including schist, slate, and limestone, which contribute to the complexity of the wines. Winemaking techniques in Anjou vary depending on the style of wine being produced, with a focus on preserving the natural acidity and freshness of the grapes.

History

Historical depiction of grape harvest

The history of winemaking in Anjou dates back to the Roman era, with significant development during the Middle Ages. The region's wines gained prominence in the 12th century, particularly during the reign of the Plantagenet kings, who promoted Anjou wines in England.

Notable Vineyards

Coulée de Serrant and Clos de la Bergerie vineyards

Anjou is home to several prestigious vineyards, including the Coulée de Serrant, known for its exceptional Chenin Blanc wines. The Clos de la Bergerie is another notable vineyard, producing high-quality wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region.

Related Pages

• Loire Valley (wine)
• Chenin Blanc
• Cabernet Franc
• Rosé d'Anjou
• Coteaux du Layon