Loire, France

Ah, the natural home of Sauvignon Blanc! Here you will find the leaner styles of Sauvignon Blanc compared with the fruitier, floral and ‘bigger' notes that characterise New World offerings from countries such as New Zealand and Chile. There are, of course, the famous appellations of Sancerre and Pouilly Fumé but we suggest you also look to the west of the region where you will find Reuilly, a good value and less expensive alternative.

The other dominant grape variety of the Loire is Chenin Blanc. Although popularly known in South Africa for producing dry whites, in the Loire's Anjou region it is used more often to produce rich sweet wines such as Vouvray. Our Coteaux du Layon is a more discreet version but still rich and makes a lovely accompaniment to a dessert.