AOC Saumur

Bounded by the Loire to the north, the Saumur vineyards spread across communes in three departments: Maine-et-Loire, Vienne and Deux-Sèvres. They have long been extensive: back in 1827, they already covered 10,500 hectares (about 26,000 acres).

Different Grapes for Each Type of Saumur

Red Saumur is built on Cabernet Franc. Pineau d’Aunis and Cabernet Sauvignon play a supporting role, within a limit of 30% of the blend. Still rosé comes from Cabernet Franc or Cabernet Sauvignon, alone or blended.

For sparkling wines, white or rosé, the list grows longer, with Pinot Noir, Gamay, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Grolleau among the additions. Grolleau and Chardonnay are allowed only in these sparkling wines. Chenin Blanc must be at least 60% of the white blend, Cabernet Franc at least 60% of the rosé blend. The wine then rests on its lees in the bottle for nine months or more.

Some reds can add the Puy-Notre-Dame name, recognized in 2007, with no more than 15% Cabernet Sauvignon. Finally, the growing area changes with the type of wine: the largest is the one for sparkling wines.

History of AOC Saumur

The history of the AOC Saumur vineyard spans several centuries. Located in the Loire Valley wine region of France, this terroir has been shaped by generations of passionate winemakers. Over the centuries, the Saumur vineyard has thrived, benefiting from the support of French royalty and the rise of river trade along the Loire.

Climate and Terroir of AOC Saumur

• Climate: The AOC Saumur vineyard is located in the Loire Valley, benefiting from a temperate oceanic climate. This climate, with its mild, sunny summers and cool winters, allows for optimal grape ripening while preserving a fresh character.
• Soils: The terroir of AOC Saumur is composed of limestone-rich soils with tuffeau, a distinctive rock of the region.

Cabernet Franc and Chenin: The Signature Grapes of AOC Saumur

Although some varieties like Pineau d’Aunis (red), Cabernet-Sauvignon (red), Grolleau (red), or Chardonnay (white) may be used in small proportions, the flagship grapes of the AOC Saumur appellation are undoubtedly Chenin (white) and Cabernet Franc (red).

Style of AOC Saumur Wines

• White (still and sparkling): The wine shows a pale yellow color with green hues and fine bubbles for the sparkling varieties. The nose reveals notes of fruit (pear, apple, peach), flowers (linden, acacia), with a very mineral and fresh impression on the palate.
• Red: The wine displays a deep ruby red color. The nose offers rich aromas of red fruits (raspberry, strawberry), flowers (violet), sweet spices, and even hints of bell pepper. On the palate, these red wines are tender and crunchy, with silky tannins.

Best Food and Wine Pairings with an AOC Saumur Wine

Here are some dishes that pair wonderfully with a bottle of wine from an AOC Saumur estate or château:

• White: seafood platter, goat cheese, andouille sausage
• Red: roast pork, Le Mans rillettes, stuffed quail
• Sparkling: aperitif, bavarois dessert

Saumur’s Past and Its Champigny Neighbor

What Were Saumur’s “Wines for the Sea”?

Saumur’s “wines for the sea” were its wines for aging, the ones that could stand the journey by ship. In the 16th century, Dutch brokers who valued how well these wines traveled spread the reputation of Chenin Blanc far beyond the region. These age-worthy wines differed from those meant for the Paris market.

When Was AOC Saumur Recognized?

AOC Saumur was first recognized in 1936, for its still whites. Still reds and rosés followed in 1937, sparkling whites in 1938 and sparkling rosés in 1957.

What Is the Difference Between Red Saumur and Saumur-Champigny?

Red Saumur and Saumur-Champigny belong to two separate appellations, both based on Cabernet Franc. In red Saumur, supporting grapes can reach 30% of the blend, compared with 15% in Saumur-Champigny. Their growing areas overlap only in the commune of Saumur.

Where Can You Buy Saumur Direct from the Winemaker?

You can buy Saumur direct from the winemaker on Avenue des Vins. Your order ships straight from the producer, with no middleman.

See also: Loire red wines - Rosé wines from the Loire Valley - AOC Crémant de Loire