Types of Vouvray
Sparkling Vouvray
As we mentioned, Vouvray wines are incredibly varied, with a significant number of different styles on offer for your enjoyment. Sparkling wine tends to be produced most often, with most created using the same methode traditionelle as the iconic chateaux of the Champagne region – although don’t forget, champagne is only champagne if it comes from Champagne! Look out for dry Brut styles or the sweeter Demi-Sec, with beautifully light bubbles and that characteristic Chenin Blanc fruitiness. Occasionally, the ancient method of sparkling wine production will also be used, creating a style known as pétillant which offers just the lightest of froths to tingle your tastebuds.
Still Vouvray
Still wine makes up less than 50% of total production in Vouvray – despite this, the variety on offer truly showcases the incredible range that the Chenin Blanc grape is capable of. Still Vouvray ranges from sec, the driest style which incorporates bracing mineral notes; to the off-dry tendre and the sweeter demi-sec. Demi-sec in particular showcases the best of Chenin Blanc’s fabulous fruity flavours, with notes of everything from pear and green apple to honeysuckle noticeable on the palate.
Moelleux (Sweet) Vouvray
Perhaps the most interesting still Vouvray wine comes in the form of moelleux. Chenin Blanc can often develop noble rot, a friendly fungus which can help grapes attain a particularly luxurious sweet taste, as well as increasing potential for aging and longevity. Moelleux wine is the sweetest, most concentrated Vouvray, very often thanks to noble rot – the high sugar content helps these wines attain a stunning richness that can last for many years in the cellar. Think deep, candied flavours such as ginger and pear, with just a hint of beeswax or perhaps apricot. Gloriously sweet and utterly memorable.
