In Love with Loire: Exploring the Hidden Gem of French Wine

In Love with Loire. The Wined Up Podcast.

Welcome to another dive into the world of wine! If you’re here, you’re either a wine lover, a curious newbie, or just someone who stumbled upon this article while Googling “cheap French wine.” Either way, you’re in for a treat. Inspired by The Wined Up podcast’s Trent and Jason, let’s uncork the magic of the Loire Valley—one of France’s most underrated wine regions.

Figure 1: The Wined Up Podcast explore Loire Wines

The Loire Valley: A Quick Sip of Geography

Before we get into the flavours, let’s set the scene. The Loire Valley is a sprawling wine region stretching from the Atlantic coast all the way to central France. It’s like the Great Ocean Road of French wine regions—beautiful, diverse, and absolutely worth exploring.

Here’s the Loire by the numbers:

  • 42,000 hectares of vineyards (that’s 15 times the size of Australia’s Yarra Valley).
  • 30 grape varieties and 2,700 wine growers producing 267 million bottles a year.
  • Fun fact: It’s the world’s largest producer of Chenin Blanc and Cabernet Franc.

If that doesn’t impress you, how about this: it’s second only to Champagne for sparkling wine production. Who knew Loire was giving bubbles a run for their money?

Regions of the Loire Valley: Breaking It Down

The Loire is massive, so we’ll split it into three main areas: Upper Loire, Middle Loire, and Lower Loire. Each has its unique vibe, wines, and Instagram-worthy châteaux.

Loire wine region map
Figure 2: Image of Loire Wine Region taken at 2024 Good Food & Wine Show Sydney as part of Masterclass sponsored by Vins de Loire

Upper Loire: The Sauvignon Blanc Show

This is home to big names like Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé, known for their crisp, minerally Sauvignon Blancs. If you’re into wines with that “just rained on a slate roof” vibe, this is your jam. Think citrusy, smoky flavours that scream for seafood pairings.

Middle Loire: Chenin Blanc and Cabernet Franc Paradise

Here’s where you’ll find iconic sub-regions like Anjou, Saumur, and Touraine. The stars here are:

  • Chenin Blanc: A chameleon grape that does dry, sweet, and sparkling wines like a pro.
  • Cabernet Franc: Perfect for when you want something light, fruity, and easy to drink.

This region is also home to some legendary castles. If you’ve ever seen pictures of Château de Chambord, now you know it’s not just for history buffs—it’s wine country too.

Lower Loire: Home of Muscadet

Melon de Bourgogne grapes dominate here, creating Muscadet, a wine that’s light, crisp, and perfect with oysters. These wines often come with a “Sur Lie” label, meaning they aged on their yeast lees for a year, giving them a creamy texture and salty edge. Picture yourself at Sydney Fish Market with a bottle of Muscadet, a dozen oysters, and no seagulls in sight. Bliss.

Why Loire Wines Deserve a Spot on Your Shelf

1. Incredible Value

Loire wines are ridiculously affordable. You can snag a bottle for as little as $8 and still get premium quality. That’s cheaper than some craft beers, and let’s be honest—way classier for a dinner party.

2. Versatility

From sparkling Crémants to bone-dry Chenin Blancs to sweet dessert wines, Loire has something for everyone. Whether you’re a red wine loyalist or a rosé sipper, there’s a Loire wine waiting to surprise you.

3. Perfect for Summer

Loire wines are all about light, fresh, and zippy flavours. They’re ideal for warm-weather sipping, seafood feasts, and casual picnics. Imagine a chilled glass of Sancerre on a sunny afternoon. Perfection.

Fun Facts About Loire Wines

  • Leonardo da Vinci Connection: He lived (and passed away) in Amboise, smack in the heart of the Loire Valley. It’s like sipping on a piece of history.
  • Second Sparkling Capital: Move over Champagne, Loire’s Crémants are sparkling superstars at half the price.
  • Chambord Liqueur: Yep, the iconic raspberry liqueur comes from Loire. Next time you mix a Chambord Royale, toast to the region that made it happen.

Tasting Notes: 2020 Domaine des Amoureaux Muscadet Sur Lie

Let’s geek out over one wine: the 2020 Domaine des Amoureaux Muscadet Sur Lie. This crisp white has a subtle green hue and aromas of sea breeze, citrus, and a hint of salinity. On the palate, it’s zingy with notes of fresh lemon, green apple, and a touch of nuttiness. It’s basically summer in a glass.

Pairing tip: Muscadet loves oysters, so grab a dozen and a bottle for your next seafood splurge. Bonus points if you enjoy it by the water (or just pretend your backyard is the French coast).

Loiwer Wine tasting with The Wined Up Podcast team
Figure 3: Trent and Jason try the 2020 Domaine des Amoureaux (4th from the left)

Final Thoughts: Why Loire Wines Are the Next Big Thing

Loire wines might not have the fame of Bordeaux or Burgundy, but that’s part of their charm. They’re approachable, affordable, and packed with character. Whether you’re exploring Sauvignon Blancs, Chenin Blancs, or Muscadet, you’re guaranteed a great bottle—and probably some change left for snacks.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab a bottle, invite some friends, and start your journey through the Loire Valley—one sip at a time. Cheers! 🍷

Click here to watch the full episode where The Wined Up Podcast explore the world of Loire wines.