Cheverny French wine appellation guide: location, history, wines, climate & soil
Cheverny is a Loire Valley appellation near the châteaux of Blois and Chambord, known for crisp, food-friendly whites blending Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay, plus light, fruity reds and rosés.
More info about Cheverny
Geographic position
Central France, in the Loir-et-Cher department south of Blois, between the Loire river and the forests of the Sologne, around Cheverny, Cour-Cheverny and Mont-Près-Chambord.
Origin & history
Vineyards here supplied the royal courts of the Loire châteaux during the Renaissance, and the rare Romorantin grape was reputedly brought from Burgundy in 1519 at the request of King François I. Cheverny was a VDQS from 1973 and became an AOC in 1993.
Wines & grape varieties
Whites blend Sauvignon Blanc with Chardonnay (and some Menu Pineau); reds and rosés blend Pinot Noir and Gamay with Cabernet Franc or Côt. Expect citrus, white flowers and fresh red fruit.
Climate & soil
Mild oceanic climate with continental touches. Sand and clay over limestone, with flinty "perruches", give light, lively wines.
Wine region: Loire
Grape varieties: Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, Gamay, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc