Crémant de Loire is the regional appellation for Sparkling wines from Anjou, Saumur and Touraine - the heart of France's Loire Valley wine region. Chenin Blanc is the main ingredient. A wide range of other traditional Loire grape varieties can be used. These include the obvious choices of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, but also Cabernet Franc, Pineau d'Aunis, Grolleau Noir and even Cabernet Sauvignon.
The star grape of the upper Loire, Sauvignon Blanc, is a notable (and intentional) omission here. Despite its high Acidity, Loire Sauvignon is not considered well-suited to sparkling wine production. It is interesting to note, however, that this grape variety is not excluded from Bordeaux sparkling wines. A good Crémant de Loire has a tight, persistent effervescence that denotes a traditional method rather than Tank production, and a Complex, nutty, slightly honeyed Nose.
Jacquère is the most widespread grape variety in Savoie. It has medium-sized bunches that are cylindrical-conical. They are compact and often winged. The berries are medium-sized and can be slightly elongated or spherical, with thick skins that turn from yellowish green to golden yellow to a slightly pinkish hue when fully ripe. The soft flesh of the fruit of this variety is tart but not very juicy. Jacquère has a budding process almost identical to that of Chasselas. With a semi-erect growth habit, this white variety is vigorous and fertile, and should be pruned short to be more productive. It thrives on clay-limestone soils as well as on stony scree. Grey rot and black rot are the main enemies of Jaquère. It can cope with oidium and mildew. This variety produces a light, pale, acidic and lively wine with a floral aroma. It should be consumed quickly.
wines from the region of Crémant de Loire go well with generally quite well with dishes of shellfish, poultry or appetizers and snacks such as recipes of sauerkraut of the sea in casserole, stuffed artichoke or preparation of the olives (black olives in brine).
On the nose in the region of Crémant de Loire often reveals types of flavors of non oak, earth or microbio and sometimes also flavors of tree fruit, yeast or cream. In the mouth in the region of Crémant de Loire is a powerful with a nice vivacity and a fine and pleasant bubble.
