Sauvignon Blanc is responsible for all the white wine of the area (except for a little Chasselas in Pouilly-sur-Loire) and when drunk young, as it should be, it is fresh, fruity and effervescent.
Pinot Noir produces a relatively small amount of undistinguished red and more appealing rosé wines.
The Central Vineyards harbour many micro-climates on and around the hills that flank the Loire, but of primary importance are the well-drained, heat-retaining limestone soils that Sauvignon Blanc seems to love. It is these that elevate Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé to greatness.