Orléans-Cléry AOC

Orléans-Cléry sits on the left (south) bank of the Loire River in the Loiret department, positioned between the Sologne forest and the Loire itself. The appellation spans five communes: Cléry-Saint-André, Mareau-aux-Prés, Mézières-lez-Cléry, Olivet, and Saint-Hilaire-Saint-Mesmin. Vineyards occupy gently sloping terrain at elevations ranging from 82 to 109 meters, tucked within the Loire Valley floor.

• Five municipalities west of Orléans form the appellation boundary
• Loiret department, within the broader Orléans appellation
• Nestled between Sologne forest to the south and the Loire River to the north
• Gently sloping left bank vineyards at approximately 100 meters elevation

The soils of Orléans-Cléry are the defining feature that sets it apart from the wider Orléans appellation. Sandy and free-draining, they incorporate siliceous pebbles, sand, flint pebbles, sandstone, limestone, and alluvium. These well-drained substrates suit Cabernet Franc well and contribute to the appellation's characteristic freshness. The climate is semi-oceanic with meaningful continental influences, placing Orléans-Cléry at the northern edge of reliable Cabernet Franc ripening.

• Sandy, free-draining soils distinguish Orléans-Cléry from the broader Orléans AOC
• Soil composition includes flint pebbles, sandstone, limestone, and alluvium
• Semi-oceanic climate with continental dominance
• Northern latitude makes this one of Cabernet Franc's most northerly habitats in the Loire

The Orléans area has a long viticultural history, but the 20th century brought severe disruption. Phylloxera devastated the vineyards, and competition from other regions caused vineyard surfaces to disappear almost entirely by the mid-20th century. Recovery was gradual, and the appellation was formerly known under the broader Vins de l'Orléanais designation. Recognition came in stages: VDQS status was granted in 2002, and the appellation was elevated to full AOC standing in September 2006.

• Formerly part of the Vins de l'Orléanais designation
• Phylloxera and market competition nearly wiped out vineyards by mid-20th century
• VDQS status granted in 2002
• Elevated to AOC/AOP in September 2006

Orléans-Cléry produces exclusively still red wines from 100% Cabernet Franc. The wines show complex aromas of ripe red fruits alongside spicy and floral notes, with a tannic structure balanced by characteristic freshness. Given the northerly location, the freshness and aromatic lift of the grape come through clearly. Annual production sits at approximately 150,000 liters from just 35 hectares. The wines are best consumed within two to five years, with a modest aging potential of two to four years. Notable producers include Clos Saint-Fiacre, Domaine Saint-Avit, Vignerons de la Grand'maison, and Vignoble du Chant des Oiseaux.

• 100% Cabernet Franc, exclusively still red wines
• Aromas of ripe red fruits with spicy and floral notes
• Tannic structure with characteristic freshness
• Best consumed within 2,5 years; modest aging potential of 2,4 years