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In north-western France, the Loire wine region stretches from the Massif Central to Nantes, covering some 70,000 hectares of vineyards. It is known for appellations such as Chinon, Bourgueil and Pouilly-Fumé, amongst others. The Cour-Cheverny AOC is also found here. The appellation area of this AOC extends near Blois in the Touraine wine region, covering some 50 hectares of clay-limestone soils with flint. Romorantin vines, influenced by the temperate climate and oceanic influences of this geographical area, are planted in this appellation and produce dry and sweet white wines; the former can be kept for up to 5 years and the latter for up to 10 years. These elegant and delicate wines are lively, with a long finish, and express an aromatic bouquet that is predominantly fruity and floral (acacia, pear, apple, honey).
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Cour-Cheverny: One Grape, Eleven Villages in the Loir-et-Cher
Cour-Cheverny can be dry, medium sweet or sweet, and it is always made from Romorantin alone. The appellation sets the sugar level of the bottled wine. A dry Cour-Cheverny holds no more than 4 grams of sugar per liter, or 6 grams when the grapes reached a natural alcohol level of at least 13.5%. A medium sweet one holds 20 to 45 grams per liter. Above that, the wine is labeled sweet, a threshold set by EU rules.
Dry, Medium Sweet or Sweet: Reading a Cour-Cheverny Label
From 20 grams of sugar per liter, the label must carry the French term moelleux (medium sweet) or doux (sweet), in the same field of view as the appellation name. These wines come from riper grapes, with at least 221 grams of sugar per liter of must versus 162 for dry wines, and they are made without chaptalization. Yields are set lower too: 50 hectoliters per hectare, against 60 for dry wines. To try this style from other appellations, browse medium sweet wines.
History of the AOC Cour-Cheverny
Nestled in the heart of the Loire Valley, not far from the region's historic castles, the Cour-Cheverny appellation boasts a rich viticultural history that dates back several centuries. However, its recognition as an official appellation is relatively recent, having been established as an AOC in 1993. Today, it is inseparable from its flagship grape, Romorantin, offering a unique tasting experience that stands out from other Loire appellations.
Climate and Terroir of the AOC Cour-Cheverny
- Climate: Temperate with continental influences, featuring warm summers and moderate winters.
- Soils: Predominantly siliceous clay and sandy soils, giving the white wines of the AOC Cour-Cheverny a characteristic minerality.
Romorantin: The Iconic Grape of AOC Cour-Cheverny
The uniqueness of Cour-Cheverny lies in its exclusive white grape variety: Romorantin. Originally from Burgundy, this ancient white grape was introduced to Sologne in the 16th century at the request of King Francis I. Since then, the Cour-Cheverny vineyard has been where Romorantin fully expresses its identity.
Style of AOC Cour-Cheverny Wines
Eye: Deep golden-yellow hue.
Nose: Subtle aromas of apples, pears, quince, and white flowers (acacia), with a pronounced mineral undertone.
Palate: The AOC Cour-Cheverny white wine exhibits beautiful liveliness and freshness on the palate, with a long and mineral finish.
Serving temperature: 10°-12°C
Aging potential: Although often enjoyed young for their liveliness, some Cour-Cheverny wines can gain complexity with 3 to 5 years of aging (or even more, depending on the estate and vintage).
Best Food Pairings with an AOC Cour-Cheverny Wine
Follow our tips to create perfect food and wine pairings with a bottle of Loire white wine from a château or estate in AOC Cour-Cheverny:
- Grilled eels
- Seafood (sea urchins, oysters)
- Goat cheeses (Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine, crottins)
- Andouille de Guémené
- Vitello tonnato
Frequently Asked Questions About Cour-Cheverny
Where is the Cour-Cheverny wine region?
The Cour-Cheverny vineyard lies in the Loir-et-Cher department, on the left bank of the Loire, between the river and the Sologne. The appellation covers eleven villages, including Cour-Cheverny, Cheverny, Vineuil and Mont-près-Chambord. Away from the river, the vines grow in clearings among many woods.
When is Cour-Cheverny released?
Cour-Cheverny can be sold to consumers from June 1 of the year after the harvest. Until then, the wine must age at least until May 15. A Cour-Cheverny from the 2025 harvest can therefore reach your table from June 2026.
What does “Vin de Loire” mean on a Cour-Cheverny label?
“Vin de Loire” is a broader geographical name that a Cour-Cheverny can carry next to the appellation name. It ties the wine to the Loire Valley wine region. On the label, its letters can be no more than two-thirds the size of those in the name Cour-Cheverny.
How does Cour-Cheverny change with age?
Young Cour-Cheverny is lively, often with citrus, yellow-fleshed fruit or white flower aromas. After a few years in the cellar, it often shows notes of honey, lemon, wax or prune. Medium sweet and sweet versions generally age even longer.
Where can you buy Cour-Cheverny wine direct from the winemaker?
You can buy Cour-Cheverny wine direct from the winemaker on Avenue des Vins. Your order ships straight from the producer, with no middleman.
See also: Loire white wines - AOC Touraine - AOC Cheverny