Definition: Vendômois AOC (coteaux du)

Touraine region in the Loire Valley Production area located about 40 kilometres north-west of Blois, more precisely within 27 municipalities in the Loir-et-Cher department. Classified as an AOC in 2001. Area under production: nearly 140 hectares. White grape varieties: Chenin; secondary variety, Chardonnay (maximum 20%); black varieties: Cabernet Franc (between 10 and 40% maximum), Pineau d'Aunis (minimum 40%), Pinot (between 10 and 40% maximum); accessory variety, Gamay (maximum 10%). Vinified as: white, grey (mostly from Pineau d'Aunis) and red (from a blend of grapes or wines made exclusively from the three main red grape varieties and possibly Gamay). The name of the grape variety may not be mentioned on the label. It can be kept for: 3 to 10 years for whites and reds; grey wine is drunk young. Ideal serving temperature: between 8 and 10°C for whites and greys; between 16 and 17°C for reds. To be enjoyed with: white wine with river fish; grey wine with fried fish; red wine with rabbit.