Anjou Wine Region

The Anjou wine region is located in the heart of France's Loire Valley, which has a long and rich winemaking heritage. Anjou wines are frequently classed alongside Saumur wines as "Anjou-Saumur". The region produces a wide range of red, rose, and white wines. Although the regional wine label is not widely known in the wine world, some appellations within Anjou are highly regarded around the world. The region is most renowned for its sweet Chenin Blanc wines, which are widely regarded as the most decadent sweet wines in France.

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Where is the Anjou wine region?

The Anjou wine region is located in the western Loire valley of France, in Angers city. There are 151 communes in the region, with 128 in Maine-et-Loire, 14 in Deux Sevres, and 9 in Vienne. Anjou is 90 kilometers east of Nantes, 135 kilometers southeast of Rennes, 95 kilometers southwest of Le Mans, 125 kilometers west of Tours, and 145 kilometers northwest of Poitiers. The Saumur wine region is located southeast of the Anjou wine region, and the two regions create extremely diverse wines.

History of the Anjou wine region

Chenin Blanc wines were originally mentioned in the Anjou wine area in the 9th century by the Glanfeuil Abbey, located immediately south of Angers. Monasteries that played an important role in winemaking and viticulture are awarded credit for wine development. Anjou wines were first served in the royal court of England in the mid-twelfth century and continued to be served for centuries after that. This wonderful wine region flourished swiftly and peaked in the 16th century, yet most of its wines were only available in the French market. Because of their renown, some of their wines were sold to Dutch cities and the English market. The region's widespread popularity came to an end with the Phylloxera epidemic in the twentieth century, which killed away the majority of the vineyard. Despite extensive replanting plans, the vineyards are still a long way from their glory days.

The terroir and geography of the Anjou wine region

The Anjou wine region enjoys a mild continental climate with coastal influences to the west due to its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. The woodlands of the Vendee department, located to the southwest of the region, protect from the harsh winds of the ocean. The soil along the Loire is largely made up of carboniferous rock and schist, which has proven to be ideal for Chenin Blanc. The soil is mostly limestone rich and noticeably whiter to the south and west, similar to that of Sancerre. The Loire River impacts the characteristics of the grapes by creating different microclimates throughout the region. The Loire River's tributaries, Layon and Aubance, play an important role in viticulture and aid in the development of noble rot.

Popular grape varieties from the Anjou wine region

Anjou wine region is home to every grape variety found in the Loire wine region. The dominant grape variety in the region is the Chenin Blanc which accounts for more than 50% of total production. Other significant grape varieties cultivated in the Anjou district are Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Grolleau Noir, Pineau d’Aunis, and Gamay. The region currently produces around 70,400 hectoliters of wines annually, out of which 47,300 are reds, 19,000 are whites and 4,100 are sparkling wines. 

Food to pair with Anjou wine 

Feta Cheese

Feta cheese is a type of cheese that is made from sheep, goat, or cow milk. It is a white and crumbly cheese that can be used in many dishes. Feta cheese was first made in Greece and it has been around for thousands of years. The name "feta" comes from the word "feta," which means "slice." This name came about because this type of cheese is usually cut into slices before being sold. The most common types of feta cheeses are made with cow's milk, but there are also feta cheeses that are made with sheep's milk or goat's milk. The flavor of the different types of feta varies depending on what kind of animal milk they're made from. Serve this cheese with dry white wines from Anjou.

Almond Grilled Trout

Grilled trout is a popular dish in many countries. It is usually served with vegetables and potatoes. A grilled trout dish is always accompanied by the usual vegetables, such as green beans and carrots, as well as some potato wedges. Almond grilled trout is a classic dish that is both easy and quick to make. It can be served as a main meal or as a starter. The almond adds a lovely crunchy texture and the lemon juice provides a freshness that complements the fish nicely. If you are looking for an easy but tasty dish, this almond grilled trout recipe is perfect.

Andouille sausage

Andouille is a type of smoked sausage made from pork, originating in France. The name Andouille comes from the French "andouiller", which means "large gut". In the 1800s, when German butchers immigrated to New Orleans to work in slaughterhouses, they brought with them their technique for making large intestines into tasty sausages. Andouille sausage is a type of smoked sausage made from pork, originating in France. Andouille sausage is usually used in dishes like gumbo or jambalaya, but it can also be served as a standalone dish. The sausage has a rich flavor that is often described as smoky, peppery, and spicy. Pair this sausage with full-bodied red wines from the Anjou wine region. 

Places to visit in the Anjou wine region

City of Angers

Angers is a city in western France on the Loire. It is a sub-prefecture of the Maine-et-Loire department and the capital of the region of Pays de la Loire. It has been historically an important location because it was at the junction of old trade routes, including those along the Loire and Sarthe rivers. Discover the robust old Chateau d'Angers in the center of town and overlooking the Maine river that will be a highlight of your vacation to Angers. The town of Baugé to the east is very intriguing and is built around a little castle, and a village to the south of Angers that we particularly loved visiting is Aubigne-sur-Layon. There are also some lovely villages in the department's north, including Grez Neuville on the banks of the Mayenne River, Pouancé with its medieval castle, and Chenillé-Changé, a little historic center. As you explore, you will come across many more, most of which are modest but charming.

Town of Saumur

Saumur is a commune in the Maine-et-Loire department in western France.t is the capital of the Saumur wine region and has been home to some of France’s largest winemakers. The city is located on the Loire River, near its confluence with Maine, and was founded by the Gauls.

The city has a rich architectural heritage, but it is best known for its wines and its horse racing track. The town of Saumur is a must-see during your vacation to Maine-et-Loire, not only for the stunning Chateau de Saumur but also for exploring the town and strolling along the riverfront.

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Frequently asked questions about Anjou