Saumur
Saumur is a key AOC located in the middle Loire Valley along the Loire River, characterized by its tuffeau limestone soils and cool continental climate with Atlantic influences. The region is most renowned for its elegant sparkling wines (Saumur Mousseux), crisp dry whites from Chenin Blanc, and increasingly respected reds primarily from Cabernet Franc (particularly in Saumur-Champigny). Saumur also produces a small amount of sweet wines and rosés, with Chenin Blanc and Cabernet Franc serving as the dominant grape varieties throughout the appellation.
Wines from Saumur
Louis De Grenelle
Louis De Grenelle has been crafting exceptional sparkling wines in the Loire Valley since 1859, working primarily with the region's star grape, Chenin Blanc. Made using the traditional method (the same as Champagne), but without the Champagne price tag – think of it as luxury on a Wednesday night budget. This sparkling gem offers all the complexity and refinement you'd expect from a much more expensive bottle. The family-owned house maintains time-honored techniques while embracing modern precision, resulting in a wine that's both traditional and refreshingly contemporary. Perfect for celebrations or simply making a random Tuesday feel special – because sometimes the best reason to pop a cork is no reason at all.
Cave de Saumur La Cabriole Saumur Blanc
This Saumur Blanc showcases the versatility of Loire Valley Chenin Blanc – crisp and refreshing while offering surprising depth and complexity. La Cabriole (meaning 'the caper' or 'playful jump') is an apt name for a wine with such lively character. Cave de Saumur is a quality-focused cooperative in the Loire Valley, where member growers pool their resources to create wines that truly express the region's terroir. Their Saumur Blanc comes from the area's distinctive tuffeau limestone soils, which impart that characteristic mineral quality that makes Loire Chenin so distinctive. This bottle offers exceptional value for a French white, delivering the kind of complexity and food-pairing versatility usually found at much higher price points. Perfect for those looking to explore beyond the usual white wine suspects.