Chinon

This Loire appellation, between Tours and Saumur, is best known and appreciated for its red wines, but white wines made from Chenin and rosé wines are also produced. The main grape variety is Cabernet Franc, and only 10% Cabernet Sauvignon is permitted. As with the Bourgueil AOC, the maximum yield is 55 hL/ha.

In general, the most structured and concentrated wines are made from grapes grown on clay-limestone soils, rather than from grapes grown on sandy or gravelly soils, which tend to produce lighter wines. While most Cabernet Franc wines are intended to be drunk young, wines made from longer macerations (especially in good vintages) can be aged for 20 years or more, thanks to the excellent intensity of the fruit, high acidity and present but mellow tannins.