Pouilly-Fumé is an Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC) located in the Loire River Valley in north-central France. The wines, made exclusively of Sauvignon Blanc, are also known as Blanc Fumé de Pouilly and are regarded around the world as one of the best versions of the grape. The area’s proximity to the river provides a very cool climate where the grapes maintain their sharp acidity while ripening slowly. The name “Fumé” refers to the natural gray bloom that covers the grapes during growing season, making them look smokey, and to the “smokiness” perceived in the wines caused in part by the crushed flint rocks found in the vineyard’s soil. There are about 120 wineries in Pouilly-Fumé, mostly owned by families for generations. Pouilly Fumé should not be confused with Pouilly-Fuissé AOC, an area in Burgundy dedicated to Chardonnay.
Author: Maytte Rivera
