This article is published on Somm TV Magazine.

Loire is especially attractive to those who enjoy going off the beaten path to seek for the unique and the uncommon. Such is the thrill of uncorking a totally unfamiliar bottle, researching about a new producer, or having your mind blown away by the quality of an unusual wine. The path to knowledge guarantees new discoveries, and the pleasure is truly in the journey.

The Loire Valley, arguably the northernmost wine region of France, is home to grapes that are especially good at thriving in cooler climates. While native varietals are natural habitants of the Loire, grapes visiting from other regions also planted their roots here and those who thrived have claimed their rights to stay.

A village built by the Romans, Chinon is famous for its medieval streets and the ruined Château de Chinon, residence of Charles VII and the first meeting place between him and Joan of Arc in 1429. In addition to its historic importance, Chinon is one of the better known wine producing towns of the Loire, its red wine are highly prized because of its unique geolocation, terroir, and microclimate.

Let us head upstream past the town of Nevers into one of the most remote yet beautiful wine regions of France – the Upper Loire. It has some of the most breathtaking landscapes, filled with fascinating history and wonderful discoveries.

For centuries, the wines of Loire have inspired enthusiasm due to their tender, elegant and vivid qualities. To master this fascinating wine region, let us take a deep dive into everything there is to know about the Jardin de la France.