A Loire Valley Rosé and Red Summer Wine Bargain

Posted on: May 24th, 2012 by

loire valley red and rosé summer wine bargainI’ve been a fan of everything from France’s Loire Valley for quite a while, but two co-op wines sampled at a recent tasting put on by the Loire Valley Wine Bureau were standouts that will slake your thirst for a one-two summer wine bargain punch:

2011 Cave Cooperative du Vendômois Coteaux de Vendômois Lieu-dit* Cocagne
2010 Cave de Saumur Saumur Les Pouches

I will admit to never hearing of the obscure Coteaux de Vendômois region of the Loire Valley, which had me scurrying to the map to find out where it’s located. (Oh, it’s kind of right above Vouvray.) Not only was I unfamiliar with the region, but the grape this rosé is made from as well: Pineau d’Aunis. Though light-bodied, pale, and austere (three things I love in a rosé) it certainly had a distinct finish. Like un-fruity and savory. Reminded me a bit of Cabernet Franc. Which leads me too…

The Saumur. 100% Cabernet Franc, this is a light-bodied red that begs to be chilled down and enjoyed all summer with burgers and dogs.

Though prices and availability will differ, these are two of the best bargains in my neck of the woods, Seattle. What can you recommend for a great summer wine bargain? I’m all ears, plus a corkscrew, and an empty glass to fill.

Sweet Loire Valley castle image courtesy of NZwombat.

*Lieu-dit refers to a specific location; as far as these two locations (Cocagne and Les Pouches), I believe they are the names of single vineyards. In any case, instead of getting a wine made from grapes culled from a large area, these wines are from grapes harvested in distinct sites.

loire valley red and rosé summer wine bargain

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  1. […] Wine Without Worry, Jameson Fink recommends A Loire Valley Rose’ and Summer Red – both bargain […]

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