Definition: Forez AOC (Côtes-du-)

Appellation in central France. Production area located about 40 kilometres north-west of Saint Etienne, on the left bank of the Loire, about 20 kilometres west of Feurs, more precisely within 17 communes (altitude between 390 and 560 metres) in the Loire department. Classified as an AOC in 2000. Area under production: just over 200 hectares. The total area covered is just over 1,700 hectares. Black Gamay grape variety. Produced as rosé and red wine. Best drunk young (2 to 3 years). Ideal serving temperature: between 8 and 10°C for rosé; between 15 and 16°C for red. Pairings: rosé with grilled meats or charcuterie; red with grilled andouillette sausage.