Wines to be tasted – 2 reds and 2 whites. From different appellations and illustrating different aspects of the grape varieties based on location and winemaking style or technique.

Dry White: Sancerre – From Domaine Bourgeois. A dry white wine appellation from the area south and east of Orléans, Sancerre white is made from the Sauvignon Blanc grape.

Red: Saumur Champigny – from Domaine Filliatreau. An ever-improving appellation that produces red wines from the Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon grape varieties.

Red #2 – Chinon – from Charles Joguet. Chinon is perhaps the most famous red appellation from the Loire so an introductory tasting of Loire wines wouldn’t be complete without one. Reds from the appellation must have a minimum of 90% Cabernet Franc. Experts agree that this grape’s best expression comes from the Loire.

White #2 – Sweet –Coteaux de Layon from Château de Fesles, Domaine des Baumard or Château de Bellerive. When in the Loire one must sample the amazing sweet wine that can be made from the Chenin Blanc grape.