A LOOK BACK AT VAL DE LOIRE MILLESIME 2019
From April 23rd to 27th 2019, we headed west to the Nantes vineyards to welcome 70 international writers and journalists to the Loire Valley, and to join them in exploring the latest vintages and the diversity and abundance of Loire Valley wines in their home region. We also had a chance to meet and talk to Loire Valley winemakers and négociants.
3 whole days, devoted to tasting the latest vintages and exploring the Loire Valley vineyards! A great opportunity to meet international wine writers and journalists at the heart of the Nantes vineyards, our westernmost winegrowing region.
OPENING EVENT: A WARM WELCOME
After so many hours on the road, our guests were glad to ditch their suitcases and join our first event, where they were warmly welcomed by InterLoire President, Jean-Martin Dutour. Everyone enjoyed an aperitif and nibbles before embarking on the serious business of exploring the glorious scents and flavours of the great Loire white wine brands, paired with a range of delicious verrines (shot-glass appetisers). Venue: aboard the Bateau Lavoir on the Erdre.
DAY 1: THE LATEST VINTAGE AND A TASTE OF THE SEA
To kick-start the first day, guests attended a masterclass and guided tasting to learn about the latest vintage.
In the afternoon we headed off to the ocean to discover the wines of Nantes, from Gros-Plant-du-Pays-Nantais to the Muscadet Crus. And where better to taste them than at an oyster-bed – or foraging on the beach for shellfish? Salty air and seaside flavours guaranteed!
The day finished with a tribute to Nantes wines – a stylish event featuring elegant wine and seafood pairings courtesy of Michelin-starred chef Mathieu Gilbert. The winegrowers joined us for the evening.
DAY 2: CHENIN AND CABERNET
Day 2 began with a 100% Chenin masterclass, followed by themed tastings of Saumur reds and Loire Valley IGP Chardonnays.
To Savennières next, for lunch in the vineyards followed by an exclusive tour of Coulée de Serrant, between the Loire and the hillsides, where the Loire Valley’s most noble varietal is showcased to its best advantage.
Saumur Champigny reds were the focus for this evening’s event – paired with delicious foods and served in a fun, friendly atmosphere.
DAY 3: CELEBRATING DIVERSITY
This morning, our guests attended a Côt masterclass hosted by Raimonds Tomsons, winner of the Best Sommelier of Europe title 2017, who gave a fascinating introduction to our themed tastings of Touraine, Vouvray and the rosés of Anjou.
After lunch with the winegrowers whose wines we had been tasting, we headed off to Clisson, a mediaeval city reminiscent of a Tuscan village. A walk through the vineyards led us to our next destination – a tasting of reds, whites and rosés made from classic Loire varietals including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Fié Gris.
Our last evening centred on 14 of the Loire Valley’s most prestigious Domaines, their wines paired with a range of foods. This time we were in the heart of the city, in the warm, friendly setting of B2M.
And so the 3rd edition of Val de Loire Millésime came to a close. Follow our adventures on #VALDELOIREMILLESIME
See you next year !