Orléans

Orléans is an appellation in Loire Valley, France.

The signature grape is Pinot Meunier, backed by Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Franc.

Vines root into clay, limestone and sand.

The climate is continental.

The vineyards themselves read as riverside.

Red wine, rosé wine and white wine is what the region is known for, and in the glass it shows light-bodied with high acidity, refreshing and light, reflective of the northern climate and crisp and refreshing, plus one more.

Quality is codified by the AOP, which is worth reading off the label.

The named areas within are Orleans-Clery.

Pour them alongside seafood, salads and light pasta dishes.

Serve chilled.

In the glass.

Red: Light-bodied with high acidity.

Rosé: Refreshing and light, Reflective of the northern climate.

White: Crisp and refreshing, Primarily from chardonnay.

Grapes planted here.

Classifications.

• AOP

Bottles to look for.

• Clos Saint-Fiacre Orleans Blanc, Loire, France
• Clos Saint-Fiacre Orleans L'Excellence Blanc, Loire, France
• Clos Saint-Fiacre Orleans L'Excellence Rouge, Loire, France
• Clos Saint-Fiacre Orleans Rouge, Loire, France
• Reynald Heaule Clos Belle Croix Orleans Rive Droite Blanc, Loire, France
• Reynald Heaule Clos Belle Croix Orleans Rive Droite Rouge, Loire, France
• Reynald Heaule Orleans 'A Contre Courant', Loire, France
• Reynald Heaule Orleans L'Insoumis du Village, Loire, France

At the table.

• Seafood
• Salads
• Light pasta dishes

Serving and cellaring.

• Serve chilled.

Inside the region.

Nearby regions.

Orléans: common questions

More from here: every wine region in France, or the wider Loire Valley guide.