Pouilly-Fumé French wine appellation guide: location, history, wines, climate & soil
Pouilly-Fumé is one of the world's benchmark appellations for Sauvignon Blanc, facing Sancerre across the Loire and famous for wines with a smoky, flinty, mineral character.
More info about Pouilly-Fumé
Geographic position
Central France, in the Nièvre department on the right bank of the Loire, around the town of Pouilly-sur-Loire, about 200 km south of Paris, opposite the hills of Sancerre.
Origin & history
Benedictine monks from La Charité-sur-Loire developed the vineyards in the Middle Ages. The name "Fumé" refers to the grey bloom on ripe Sauvignon grapes and to the wine's smoky notes. The AOC was created in 1937.
Wines & grape varieties
Dry white wine only, made from 100% Sauvignon Blanc (locally called Blanc Fumé). Expect citrus, gooseberry, white flowers, a gunflint smokiness and a long, mineral finish.
Climate & soil
Semi-continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. Kimmeridgian marl, limestone and flinty clay (silex) give the wines their tension and characteristic smoky aromas.
Wine region: Loire
Grape varieties: Sauvignon Blanc