Whiplash In the Loire

e-mail

View the entire table of contents
for the Nov. 15, 2005 issue

See Also
California Cabernet '02
Red Star Rising
Success in the Cellar
Collector In the Kitchen
Brothers in Vines
An American in Bordeaux
Fast Cars And Fine Wine
Oil, Water and Wine
A Tale of Two Cities, Texas Style
Alain Ducasse
Alphabetical Guide to California Cabernet Sauvignon

Three vintages deliver sharply different styles across France's most extensive wine region

James Molesworth
Issue: November 15, 2005

The Loire Valley's three most recent vintages show a whiplash-inducing variety of styles, each with strengths and drawbacks. Look for 2003s if you enjoy ripeness, 2004s if you prefer bright acidity, or the remaining 2002s if you want balance and intensity.