Which white grape is the primary varietal used in Anjou-Saumur and Western Touraine?

Which white grape is the primary varietal used in Anjou-Saumur and Western Touraine?

• A. Chardonnay
• B. Sauvignon Blanc
• C. Chenin Blanc
• D. Pinot Gris

Answer: (C)

The region’s white wines are defined by Chenin Blanc. In Anjou-Saumur and Western Touraine, Chenin Blanc is the principal grape, producing a wide range of styles from crisp dry wines to off-dry and even sweet wines (like the famous Vouvray and Saumur blancs). Its high acidity and versatility allow it to age well and develop nuanced flavors over time, which is why it’s so closely associated with these areas. Chardonnay is more commonly linked with other regions and styles, Sauvignon Blanc is the hallmark of eastern Loire appellations like Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé, and Pinot Gris isn’t the dominant white in these western Loire zones.

The region’s white wines are defined by Chenin Blanc. In Anjou-Saumur and Western Touraine, Chenin Blanc is the principal grape, producing a wide range of styles from crisp dry wines to off-dry and even sweet wines (like the famous Vouvray and Saumur blancs). Its high acidity and versatility allow it to age well and develop nuanced flavors over time, which is why it’s so closely associated with these areas. Chardonnay is more commonly linked with other regions and styles, Sauvignon Blanc is the hallmark of eastern Loire appellations like Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé, and Pinot Gris isn’t the dominant white in these western Loire zones.