tufa
An emblematic stone of the Saumur region
Foundation of the Saumur-Champigny wine terroir
A rock from an ancient sea
Tuffeau is one of the major geological signatures of the Saumur region. This soft limestone was formed during the Turonian period, approximately 94 to 90 million years ago, from marine sediments deposited when the region was still covered by a shallow sea.
Over time, these deposits rich in shells, microorganisms and calcareous debris gradually accumulated and then compacted to give birth to this light and luminous stone which today shapes the landscapes of the Loire Valley.
A soil particularly favorable to vines
A natural regulation of water
Highly porous, tuffeau possesses properties particularly favorable to viticulture. It acts like a true natural sponge: it absorbs water during wet periods and then gradually releases it to the roots when conditions become drier.
This water regulation capacity, combined with effective natural drainage, prevents excess water while ensuring a regular supply of nutrients to the vine.
The soils derived from tuffeau thus bring freshness, finesse and balance, ideal conditions for the expression of cabernet franc and the identity of Saumur-Champigny wines.
An influence on the ripening of grapes
The tuffeau hillsides also play an important role in regulating soil temperature. Their light, calcareous structure reflects some of the heat and helps maintain a certain coolness in the vineyard, promoting the gradual ripening of the grapes.
This slow maturation allows the cabernet franc to develop fine and balanced aromas, characteristic of the wines of the appellation.
A cornerstone in the history of the region
An iconic example of Loire Valley architecture
Beyond viticulture, tuffeau stone has profoundly shaped the history and architecture of the region. For centuries, this soft stone has been extracted from the hillsides to build houses, churches, castles, and iconic buildings of the Loire Valley.
When visiting Saumur and its surroundings you will find this stone on the facades of buildings such as the Château de Saumur, the theatre, the town hall for example.
The galleries carved into the rock gradually gave rise to a vast network of underground cellars that crisscross the Saumur region and in particular the nine villages of the appellation for kilometers.
The troglodytic heritage
The cavities carved into the tuffeau also served as troglodytic habitats, testifying to the ingenuity of the inhabitants who were able to take advantage of the natural resources of the territory.
Even today, these galleries constitute a remarkable heritage and fully contribute to the identity of the Saumur region.
Ideal cellars for aging wines
Natural conditions for preservation
These tuffeau cellars are also renowned for their coolness and naturally stable temperature throughout the year.
They offer ideal conditions for the aging and preservation of wines. Thus, from the limestone subsoil to the sunny slopes, the tuffeau shapes the landscapes, the architecture and the character of the wines, constituting one of the foundations of the terroir and the identity of our Saumur-Champigny wines.
Explore the Saumur-Champigny terroir
Saumur-Champigny is the result of a unique balance between a grape variety, a soil and a river.
Cabernet Franc, tuffeau, Loire, biodiversity and the commitment of the winemakers together make up the identity of the vineyard and shape the character of the wines of the appellation.
Discover the elements that contribute to the expression and uniqueness of Saumur-Champigny wines.
cabernet franc
Cabernet Franc, the emblematic grape variety of the Loire Valley, is at the heart of the identity of Saumur-Champigny wines. Here, it reveals all its finesse and elegance.
Loire
The last great wild river in Europe, the Loire influences the climate of the vineyard and contributes to the natural balance of the terroir.
biodiversity
For many years, the winegrowers of the appellation have been committed to preserving biodiversity and promoting the natural balance of the vineyard.
ongoing projects
Experimentation with new grape varieties, naturalist studies or vitipastoralism: discover the actions taken today to prepare the viticulture of tomorrow.
