The Loire is the longest wine river in France and is known for a wide variety of wines. The region stretches over 1,000 kilometers and comprises various climate zones, from semicontinental in Sancerre to oceanic near Nantes. The most important grape varieties are Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin and Cabernet Franc. The soils vary widely and include clay, lime, shale, and more. Wine production includes dry and sweet white wines, fruity rosés, red wines and sparkling wines. Around 2.1 million hectoliters of wine are produced annually.