The Loire Valley is France's largest, most balanced, and most versatile wine-growing region. Situated along the river of the same name in western France, it winds its way from the Atlantic coast near Nantes to Orléans and Bourges, deep in the heart of France. Along this stretch, the wine region is divided into a total of four areas, each with its own character, traditions, and, of course, leading wines.

Along the Atlantic coast, Muscadet – incidentally, not related to Muscat – is particularly prevalent, while in the Anjou-Saumur region, rosé wines and Crémants made from Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, and Cabernet Franc are more common. The latter two also set the tone in Touraine, until the global stronghold of Sauvignon Blanc emerges in the Centre-Loire.