Saumur

Designation around the town giving the same name, which produces quality sparkling wines (sparkling Saumur) ,made from Chenin and Chardonnay and sometimes Sauvignon, and still wines, red, rosé, white. The whites, based on Chenin, are produced on limestone soils, with great finesse and good minerality, and their high level of acidity gives them good aging potential. The reds, mainly from Cabernet-Franc, Cabernet-Sauvignon and Pineau d'Aunis are relatively light and fruity. The finest can be found in the Saumur-Champigny area, on a tuffeau platter producing a richerer and more tannic wine. Some of the best producers include Chateau du Hureau, Domaine des Roches Neuves, Filliatreau and Foucault.