Atlas de la France vinicole - Les vins des côteaux de la Loire - Bourgueil, St Nicolas-de-Bourgueil, Chinon, Montlouis, Jasnières 1946

The 1946 original map Atlas de la France Vinicole - Les Vins des Côteaux de la Loire: Bourgueil, St Nicolas-de-Bourgueil, Chinon, Montlouis, Jasnières, created by Louis Larmat and printed by Dorel in Paris, is a remarkable work that captures the essence of these renowned wine regions in the Loire Valley. Part of Larmat's extensive and prestigious Atlas de la France Vinicole, this map focuses on the western Loire Valley, highlighting some of the most respected wine appellations in the region, all of which have deep-rooted viticultural traditions and produce distinctive wines.

Louis Larmat was a master of creating detailed and artistically engaging wine maps, and this particular map is no exception. His maps are celebrated for their accuracy, artistry, and utility, blending geographical precision with aesthetically pleasing designs. The Atlas de la France Vinicole series became a vital resource for wine enthusiasts, professionals, and collectors alike, as it offered insight into the terroirs, vineyard layouts, and regional characteristics that define French wines.

The Loire Valley is often called the “Garden of France” because of its scenic landscapes and agricultural bounty, particularly its vineyards. This map specifically focuses on some of the most important appellations in the western part of the region: Bourgueil, Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil, Chinon, Montlouis, and Jasnières. These areas, located along the Loire River and its tributaries, are particularly well-known for their production of both red and white wines, crafted from a variety of grape varieties including Cabernet Franc, Chenin Blanc, and others.

Bourgueil and Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil, located on the right bank of the Loire River, are well known for producing red wines from Cabernet Franc. These appellations, which are geographically close but have distinct characteristics, are highlighted on Larmat’s map with their vineyards carefully delineated. The map illustrates the importance of the Loire River, which plays a key role in moderating the climate, creating a temperate environment ideal for growing Cabernet Franc. The soils of Bourgueil and Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil, composed of gravel and limestone, give the wines their unique structure, minerality, and ability to age gracefully. Larmat’s depiction of these regions showcases their topography and proximity to the river, giving insight into the terroir that defines the wines.

Chinon, another prestigious appellation featured on the map, is one of the Loire Valley’s most celebrated red wine regions. Chinon is known for its wines made primarily from Cabernet Franc, although small quantities of white wine are also produced from Chenin Blanc. The Chinon vineyards, spread across the banks of the Vienne River (a tributary of the Loire), are characterized by a diversity of soils, ranging from sandy-gravelly terrains to limestone-rich areas. This diversity is reflected in the wide range of styles that Chinon wines can exhibit—from light and fruity to more structured and tannic wines. Larmat’s map captures the distinctiveness of the Chinon terroir, emphasizing the region’s hilly landscapes and the importance of the river systems in shaping the vineyards.

Montlouis, located on the south bank of the Loire River opposite Vouvray (another famous Loire appellation), is renowned for its production of exceptional white wines made from Chenin Blanc. Montlouis wines are known for their elegance, vibrant acidity, and ability to be made in various styles, from dry to sweet, and even sparkling wines. The map highlights the vineyards of Montlouis with great precision, showing their proximity to the river and the unique terroir that combines clay, limestone, and flint soils. Larmat’s attention to these details provides an understanding of why Montlouis wines, though sometimes overshadowed by nearby Vouvray, are so highly regarded for their quality and versatility.

Jasnières, one of the smallest but most prestigious appellations in the Loire Valley, is also prominently featured on this map. Located to the north of Tours, Jasnières is exclusively devoted to white wines made from Chenin Blanc. The wines of Jasnières are renowned for their aging potential and their unique expression of Chenin Blanc, often described as being mineral-driven with a lively acidity and rich aromatic profile. The vineyards of Jasnières are situated on the slopes along the Loir River (a tributary of the Loire), where the soils are primarily composed of limestone and clay. Larmat’s map provides a detailed depiction of this small but important region, showing its position relative to the river and the contours of the vineyard slopes, which are critical to the ripening of the grapes.

Larmat’s map is more than just a geographical representation; it is a celebration of the culture, history, and artistry of French winemaking. The vineyards are meticulously outlined, and the terroirs are clearly defined, providing an invaluable resource for understanding the characteristics that influence the wines of these regions. The use of soft colors and artistic flourishes enhances the visual appeal, making the map as much a work of art as a cartographic tool. The river systems, which play a central role in the viticulture of the Loire Valley, are prominently featured, emphasizing the influence of water on the microclimates and terroirs of the vineyards.

Printed by Dorel in Paris, the map reflects the post-World War II period in France when the country was rebuilding its industries and cultural heritage. Wine, as one of France’s most important cultural products, was central to this resurgence, and Larmat’s maps played a role in promoting the country’s regional wine identities. The map serves both as a historical document and a visual representation of the enduring significance of these wine regions.

Collectors, wine historians, and enthusiasts highly value Larmat’s work for its blend of aesthetic beauty and practical use. The Atlas de la France Vinicole series, including this 1946 map of Les Vins des Côteaux de la Loire: Bourgueil, St Nicolas-de-Bourgueil, Chinon, Montlouis, Jasnières, remains a significant reference for anyone interested in the wines and terroirs of France. It provides not only a snapshot of the viticultural landscape in the mid-20th century but also offers timeless insights into the factors that continue to shape the wines of these regions.

In conclusion, Louis Larmat’s 1946 map of Les Vins des Côteaux de la Loire is a testament to the rich viticultural heritage of the Loire Valley. It captures the essence of some of the region’s most important wine appellations—Bourgueil, St Nicolas-de-Bourgueil, Chinon, Montlouis, and Jasnières—through a combination of artistic expression and geographical precision. Whether appreciated for its historical significance, its contribution to French wine culture, or its sheer beauty, this map remains a treasured piece of France’s vinicultural legacy.

Original Poster

Alcohol - Map - Maine-et-Loire - France

Dorel - Paris

Good condition, original folds