Loire Whites
by Dustin Soiseth
The beauty of the Loire is in its diversity. Spanning more than 300 kilometers, the rolling hills and river valleys create a mosaic of vine-friendly habitats, each with its own soil, microclimate, and people. Add to this a bohemian streak that gives a sense of freshness and discovery, and the Loire is a region that, for all its vastness, feels intimate. You can take a yoga class in a centuries-old château and view street art set amid ancient ruins. Famous vignerons age their most precious wines in caves tucked away in the countryside. History is very present here, not as a restrictive set of rules and traditions, but as a foundation on which to keep growing. These selections, made from different grapes and grown in different corners of the Loire, are but three delicious examples of the many unique white wines made in this dynamic region.
2025 Cheverny
France | Loire
Consistently affordable and delicious wines are just as important as the bottles pulled out for special occasions. Zesty and brash, this Sauvignon Blanc packs an aromatic punch and delivers uncomplicated refreshment.
2024 Saumur Blanc “L’Insolite”
France | Loire
This Chenin Blanc takes to food like a duck to water. In fact, this would actually be pretty good with some duck, or roast chicken, or pork tenderloin. With cool, restrained fruit and an almost tannic minerality, it’s a main-course white for sure.
2020 Muscadet Sèvre et Maine “Gorges”
France | Loire
My notes from a recent tasting started with “reminded how good these wines are.” Each sip of Gorges spreads out over your palate like hollandaise poured over a plate of white asparagus, the zing and verve of Muscadet augmented by nuttiness and the velvety texture of extended aging.