Wine

Mick O’Connell: The Loire at Nantes brings maritime cooling to the region’s distinct wines

Sauvignon blanc, chenin blanc, gamay, cab franc and more - this region truly has something for everyone

The Loire is the home of sauvignon blanc and while New Zealand may have stolen a march on the region, it is still where some of the world’s finest examples hail from. Picture: Getty

Our first stop in Nantes is always Les Bouteilles, a simple bistro in the heart of the city. The man who serves us is the owner, and the French version of “computer says no” - the Gallic shrug - is in full swing.

But that feeling that you are putting someone out by giving them your money, usually the biggest turn-off in service, is part of the charm here. It becomes almost a game.

The ...