Saint-Pourçain

The Saint-Pourçain vineyard, one of two vineyards in Auvergne, is relatively isolated from other vineyards in France. In fact, Saint-Pourçain is part of the Loire Valley wine region, with the nearest appellation located approximately 150 km away. It is a ubiquitous wine-growing region that has evolved with the times thanks to its unique dynamics, specific terroir, and genuine expertise. There are only 17 producers and one cooperative winery covering the appellation's 640 hectares. 

The appellation covers 19 communes and three main soil types: clay-siliceous or Bourbonnais sandy soils, which produce very fragrant, round, and spicy wines. Then, to the west of the vineyard, the granitic soils, of volcanic origin (schist, gneiss) and shaped by the river "La Bouble," give the wines a subtle balance. They are fresh and structured. Finally, the clay-limestone soils, formed by the Sioule River in the center and south of the Saint-Pourçain vineyard, give the wines floral and fruity notes, a beautiful roundness on the palate, good balance, and good length.

The white wines of the Saint-Pourçain AOC are highly distinctive. Their unique feature is the original blend of Chardonnay and Tressallier, to which Sauvignon may be added. Tressallier provides remarkable primary aromas reminiscent of those of the Viognier grape variety. The red wines of the Saint-Pourçain AOC are born from the combination of Gamay Noir and Pinot Noir, giving the wines structure, freshness, fruitiness, and character.

An illustrious vineyard

The Saint-Pourçain vineyard is probably one of the oldest vineyards in France. The presence of vines has been documented since well before the arrival of the Romans. It is believed that the Phoenicians introduced and planted them in France.

Since the Middle Ages, Saint-Pourçain has been a vineyard renowned for its white wines. Highly prized at the court of the kings of France, the fresh and fruity Saint-Pourçain white wine was a favorite of the royal family and the elite. The coat of arms of Saint-Pourçain-sur-Sioule attests to this fact with the presence of the fleur-de-lis accompanied by a barrel. On the initiative of Philip the Fair, the first national wine competition in France was created, referred to by historians as "the battle of the wines of France." Subsequently, the Bourbon dynasty continued to promote the vineyard at court and throughout France.

Production area and soil type

Since 2009, Saint-Pourçain has benefited from an AOC and the European PDO label. The production area is located on the left bank of the Allier River at the confluence of the Sioule and Bouble rivers. The vineyard, covering 540 hectares, extends over 19 communes in the Allier department. The soils, mainly sandy or composed of limestone and sometimes granite, nourish the unique terroir of this light, delicate, fruity wine and produce some 25,000 hl/year.

Diversification

In addition to Saint-Pourçain white wine, winemakers are now focusing on Saint-Pourçain red wine. The predominant use of Gamay Noir à Jus Blanc and Pinot Noir brings flavor and personality to this fine, delicate wine. These grape varieties are complemented by Chardonnay, Tressallier (a typical local variety), and Sauvignon, which originates from the Loire Valley.

Features

Today, the vineyard produces white, rosé, and red wines, along with a limited production of sweet wines made using traditional methods.

Saint-Pourçain wine comes in three main categories:

• The reds, with their attractive ruby color and bright highlights, develop a rich mineral palette. They reveal aromas of spices, redcurrants, and undergrowth. They are slightly tannic on the palate, with a peppery finish. 

• The whites have a beautiful yellow color resembling gold but paler with some green highlights. This wine reveals floral accents, particularly acacia, and fruity notes, with hints of peach and grapefruit. It is fresh and fruity on the palate. 

• The rosé, with its pale color and orange-yellow hues, releases aromas of pear and white pepper that are easily detected on the palate.

Tasting Saint-Pourçain is, above all, an opportunity to discover a unique and prestigious vineyard. A secret vineyard that reveals authentic, light wines with a fruity taste.