A Guide to wines of the Loire Valley
Selected Loire Valley wines
The wine appellation of Touraine Amboise
Touraine Amboise
This appellation produces mostly red wine from Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Gamay. Whites range from dry and lean to honeyed sweet wines.
The vineyards of Touraine Amboise
Location: Located upstream from Tours, this appellation coves six communes on the right bank of the Loire and three on the left bank.
Surface Area: 220 hectares / 544 acres
Soil: A combination of flinty clay and clay limestone enables the soil to warm easily and provide excellent water retention at the vine roots.
Climate: Located in the center of the Loire, this appellation experiences both maritime/oceanic and continental climate influences.
Wines of AOC Touraine Amboise
Annual Production: 9,000 hl / 237,755 gallons, 60% red, 30% rosé, 10% white
Grape Varieties: Red: Gamay, Cabernet Franc, Malbec; White: Chenin Blanc
Tasting notes
White Appearance: Bright, pale straw yellow. Nose: Aromas of fresh fruit and honey. Flavours: Medium-bodied with flavors of quince and honey, especially when off-dry or sweet.
Red Appearance: Deep garnet. Nose: Notes of black berries and plum. Flavours: Full-bodied with silky tannins and elegant brambly fruit.
Rosé Appearance: Pale pink. Nose: Strawberry, cherry and gooseberry. Flavours: Fresh and fruity with lively acidity.