In the northwest of France, the Loire vineyard extends from the Massif Central to Nantes over some 70,000 hectares of vines. It is known for the Chinon, Bourgueil and Pouilly-Fumé appellations, among others. The AOC Coteaux du Layon is also found there. The appellation area of this AOC extends over the territory of 27 communes on both banks of the Layon in the Anjou vineyard over some 1,650 hectares of soils mainly composed of schist and sandstone. Chenin vines (Pineau de la Loire), subject to the temperate climate and oceanic influences of this geographical area, are planted in this appellation and produce sweet or liqueur white wines with very good ageing potential (40 years and more for some great vintages). These wines, balanced between residual sugars and acidity, are known for their great aromatic complexity and their evolution over time. They express notes of flowers such as hawthorn or rose as well as fruits (peach and pear), exotic fruits (mango, guava) and dried fruits, minerality then citrus wood, honey or even bergamot.

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Les Marcottes

Les Marcottes

DOMAINE PIERRE CHAUVIN Loire
€14.50
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AOC Coteaux du Layon: Chenin and Noble Rot on the Banks of the Layon

AOC Coteaux du Layon: everything you need to know about the wines of this appellation

History of the AOC Coteaux du Layon appellation

The AOC Coteaux du Layon appellation is located in the Loire Valley, south of Angers. It takes its name from the Layon River, a tributary of the Loire. Known for its exceptional sweet white wines, the AOC Coteaux du Layon appellation was officially recognized in 1950. These wines are the result of the encounter between Chenin and “botrytis cinerea”, also called noble rot, and allows for an exceptional concentration of sugar and aromas.

Climate and terroir of the AOC Coteaux du Layon appellation

Climate: The climate of the AOC Coteaux du Layon appellation is greatly influenced by the Loire and the Layon. This unique terroir offers ideal conditions for the development of botrytis thanks to morning mists followed by sunny afternoons.

Soils: The soils of Coteaux du Layon are composed of schists and eruptive rocks, which gives the wines a beautiful minerality.

Chenin: the essential grape variety of the AOC Coteaux du Layon appellation

The AOC Coteaux du Layon appellation, whether semi-dry, sweet or liqueur, is made exclusively from Chenin blanc. Chenin, also called Pineau de la Loire, is an emblematic grape variety of the Loire (and more precisely of Anjou-Saumur) which, when affected by noble rot (Botrytis), produces wines that are both rich and complex, while retaining a beautiful acidity.

Style of AOC Coteaux du Layon wines

Appearance: Golden color, bright with amber highlights with age.

Nose: AOC Coteaux du Layon white wines express intense aromas of white-fleshed fruits, candied fruits (candied citrus peel), exotic fruits, honey and sweet spices.

Palate: The wines of the AOC Coteaux du Layon appellation are characterized by their richness, smoothness and great length in the mouth. Their beautiful acidity brings a freshness that wonderfully balances the sweetness and complexity of the wine.

Serving temperature: 10°-12°

Aging potential: 5 to 20 years, or even more depending on the estate and vintage

The best food and wine pairings with an AOC Coteaux du Layon wine

Here are some ideas for creating a perfect food and wine pairing with a bottle of sweet white wine from an estate or château in AOC Coteaux du Layon white:

  • Foie gras
  • Tarte Tatin
  • Blue cheeses (Roquefort, Fourme d’Ambert)
  • Flambé pineapple
  • Sweet and savoury Asian cuisine

Frequently asked questions about Coteaux du Layon

Is Coteaux du Layon a sweet or a luscious wine?

Coteaux du Layon can be sweet or luscious: it depends on how much sugar noble rot concentrates in the Chenin grapes. The richest bottles, from the most botrytised harvests, are the luscious ones.

What to serve with Coteaux du Layon?

Coteaux du Layon goes with foie gras and blue cheeses such as Roquefort or Fourme d'Ambert. It also pairs with fruit desserts, from tarte Tatin to flambéed pineapple, and with sweet-and-savoury Asian dishes.

How long can you keep Coteaux du Layon?

Coteaux du Layon keeps for five to twenty years, and much longer for great vintages, which can go beyond forty years. With age, its golden colour takes on amber hints and its aromas move towards honey and candied fruit.

At what temperature should you serve Coteaux du Layon?

Coteaux du Layon is served between 10 and 12 °C: cool enough to keep its freshness, without hiding its candied fruit and honey aromas.

Coteaux du Layon, Chaume, Quarts de Chaume: what is the difference?

Coteaux du Layon is the appellation for sweet and luscious Chenin whites on both banks of the Layon. Within it, Coteaux du Layon 1er Cru Chaume and Quarts de Chaume Grand Cru cover smaller terroirs.

Where can you buy Coteaux du Layon direct from the grower?

On Avenue des Vins, you buy your Coteaux du Layon direct from the grower. Every bottle is shipped by the Anjou estate that made it, with no middleman, and delivered to your door.

Explore also: AOC Quarts de Chaume Grand Cru - 100% Chenin - AOC Sauternes