Free entrance: first come, first seated

This roundtable and accompanying tasting will explore the concept of the “vintage effect” in Centre-Loire. Natural variability, shaped by terroir, climate, and winemaking expertise, will be examined to show how each vintage expresses the region’s unique potential.

The session will also consider how the notion of vintage contributes to perceptions of rarity and quality, in contrast to the pursuit of year-on-year consistency typical of branded wines. Two vintages, one cooler, one sunnier, from two Centre-Loire appellations will be tasted.

A discussion between local winemakers, François Dal from SICAVAC (the Centre-Loire technical support body), and Pauline Vicard, co-founder and executive director of Areni Global, will provide both technical and strategic insights into the topic.

François Dal will present SICAVAC’s work in helping producers better understand and showcase the vintage effect in Centre-Loire, while Pauline Vicard will share her analysis of what defines a fine wine and explain how vintage variation serves as a key driver in elevating appellation wines.