About the Speaker:

Jacky Blisson MW is an independent wine educator, video presenter, writer, and consultant with over two decades experience in all facets of the global wine trade. She is the first Master of Wine in Québec and one of only ten across Canada, as well as being a Bourgogne Wine Official Ambassador.

Jacky writes for Quench magazine, Extra-Brut, and Good Food Revolution. She produces a flourishing, self-titled YouTube wine education channel, a wine review website and is proud to be a judge for the National Wine Awards of Canada.

Timestamps:

Introduction to Jacky (00:00)
Jacky is introduced as a Master of Wine and wine educator from Quebec.

Starting the Presentation (00:00)
Jacky prepares to share her screen for the webinar presentation.

Overview of the Loire Valley (00:01)
Jacky discusses the significance and diversity of the Loire Valley wine region.

Key Facts about the Loire Valley (00:02)
An overview of the Loire Valley's size, grape varieties and wine styles.

Appellations and Subregions (00:03)
Jacky explains the four distinct subregions of the Loire Valley and their characteristics.

Historical Context of Loire Wines (00:07)
The history of winemaking in the Loire Valley, including Roman origins and monastic influence.

Impact of Phylloxera (00:09)
The devastation caused by phylloxera and the subsequent changes in grape varieties.

Post-War Challenges (00:10)
The difficulties faced by vineyards after World War II and the rise of cooperatives.

Innovations in Winemaking (00:12)
Technological advancements in winemaking during the 1970s and 1980s.

Shift Towards Organic Practices (00:13)
The movement towards organic and biodynamic viticulture in the Loire Valley.

New Generation of Winemakers (00:15)
Emerging winemakers are innovating while respecting tradition in the Loire Valley.

Terroir and Climate (00:18)
The significance of the Loire River and its tributaries in shaping local terroir.

Geology of the Loire Valley (00:19)
An overview of the geological formations influencing the region's vineyards.

Soil Types and Their Impact (00:20)
Different soil types across the Loire Valley and their effects on grape growing.

Climate Variations Across Subregions (00:22)
Discussion on how climate influences grape varieties in different areas of the Loire.

Introduction to Grape Varieties (00:24)
Discussion on various grape varieties grown in the Loire Valley, including Muscadet and Folle Blanche.

Chenin Blanc Overview (00:25)
Chenin Blanc's versatility, history and its significance in the Loire Valley wine production.

Grape Cultivation Statistics (00:26)
Breakdown of grape varieties cultivated in the Loire Valley, emphasising white and rosé production.

Red Wine Trends (00:27)
Growing respect for red wines in the Loire Valley, highlighting lighter, fresher styles.

Notable Wine Regions and Appellations (00:29)
Overview of famous areas in the Loire Valley, including Sancerre and Anjou.

Sweet Wine Production Conditions (00:30)
Conditions required for producing sweet wines, including the importance of morning mists.

Sparkling Wine Appellations (00:31)
Diversity of grapes used in Loire Valley sparkling wines and key appellations.

Cabernet Franc in the Loire (00:33)
Dominance of Cabernet Franc and its various styles across different regions.

Rosé Production Insights (00:34)
Discussion on the popularity and styles of rosé wines in the Loire Valley.

Understanding the Loire Valley (00:35)
Key points on grape varieties, wine diversity and regional appellations in the Loire.

Production Overview by Region (00:37)
Detailed look at wine production statistics and notable wines from various regions.

Muscadet's Quality Evolution (00:38)
Transformation of Muscadet's reputation and the rise of quality-focused producers.

Anjou's Wine Production (00:39)
An overview of Anjou's wine production, emphasising dry whites and rosés.

Tureen Wine Characteristics (00:41)
Description of Tureen's mixed production, including well-regarded red and white wines.

Central Loire Wine Profile (00:42)
Focus on Central Loire's white wine dominance and key varietals like Sauvignon Blanc.

Auvergne Wine Characteristics (00:43)
Overview of Auvergne's wine production, highlighting its unique grape blends and volcanic soils.

Natural Wine Movement in Auvergne (00:45)
Discussion on the recent natural wine movement and small producers in Auvergne.

Impact of Changing Tastes (00:47)
Discussion on how current trends towards drier wines affect the Loire Valley's sweet wine production.

Cabernet Sauvignon in Loire (00:48)
Exploration of the potential for Cabernet Sauvignon in the Loire as climate warms.

Final Question on Appellations (00:49)
Discussion about the complexity of appellations in the Loire Valley and how they are developed.

Pinot Denis Discussion (00:51)
Introduction to Pinot Denis, a trendy grape variety and its characteristics in Loire Valley wines.

Rarity of Pinot Denis (00:53)
Conversation on the scarcity of Pinot Denis in the UK and its presence in niche wine bars.

Closing Remarks (00:54)
Wrap-up of the webinar, expressing gratitude to Jackie and the audience for their participation.