Touraine is a large wine district in the Loire Valley in France's western reaches. Several tributaries of the Loire meet in Touraine, and there are over 100 communes in this district. Vines are generally planted on hillsides on soils of clay, limestone and gravel. White wine accounts for just under half of the total production; as in many Loire districts, Sauvignon Blanc is the principal variety, accounting for 80% of all white grapes. There is also a small amount of Chenin Blanc and Chardonnay planted. Red wines account for a little more than one-third of total production; Gamay is the leading red variety (about 60% of all red plantings), with other varieties including Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir. Acidity on both whites and reds is very good, and the wines have an earthiness to them that makes them excellent for pairing with many types of foods. (Wine/Appellations)