Loire Valley Wine Tour: Chinon & Bourgueil Vineyards & Tastings

Embark on a Delightful Loire Valley Wine Tour with Expert English-Speaking Guide

Meet your knowledgeable English-speaking guide, an expert in the exquisite wines of the Loire Valley, particularly the Chinon and Bourgueil wine appellations. We'll start the morning by picking you up from your hotel or accommodation in Tours, ensuring a convenient and comfortable experience. Upon meeting your guide, they will provide you with an overview of the day's program and itinerary. Settle into our premium air-conditioned vehicle, designed for your utmost comfort, as we begin our journey to the captivating Loire Valley Wine Regions.

Indulge in Wine Tasting in the Chinon Wine Region 

After a short scenic drive, we'll arrive at the Chinon wine-producing region. Known for its exceptional red wines crafted from Cabernet Franc or Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, as well as its exquisite white wines made from Chenin Blanc, this region boasts around 200 esteemed wine producers who collectively produce approximately 12 million bottles per year. The light, sandy-gravel soils near the Vienne River impart a rounded and supple character to the Chinon wines, making them easy to drink. Meanwhile, wines grown in the denser soil of the limestone slopes exhibit a fuller body, robustness, and longer aging potential.

Upon arrival, we'll take you to one of our carefully selected wineries in the region. Here, you'll have the opportunity to savor a wide range of local wines through a guided tasting session. Our wine tours include insightful commentary on the wines, as well as explanations about the appellation and terroir associated with the wine region.

Enjoy Free Time for Lunch (at own expense) in Charming Chinon

After the morning's wine exploration, we'll head to the picturesque town of Chinon. Accompanied by your guide, take a leisurely stroll to discover the town's charms and embrace the ambiance. You'll have free time to explore and find the perfect spot for a delightful lunch (at your own expense). Feel free to seek recommendations from your guide, who can provide suggestions for exceptional lunch opportunities.

Discover the Bourgueil / Saint Nicolas de Bourgueil Wine Region

Following lunch, we'll venture to the renowned Bourgueil / Saint Nicolas de Bourgueil Wine Region in the Loire Valley. With winemaking traditions dating back to the 10th century, this area gained prominence for its outstanding wines in the 17th century. The vineyards of Bourgueil are situated on sandy gravel known as "graviers" and clay-limestone soil called "Tuffeau," which was also used in the construction of houses and castles in the region. These historic quarries now serve as cellars for aging wines.

Bourgueil / Saint Nicolas de Bourgueil wines are predominantly red and crafted from the Cabernet Franc grape variety. Wines grown on sandy gravel soils exhibit fruitiness, delicacy, and lightness, ideal for early consumption. On the other hand, wines from vines planted in clay-limestone soils offer complexity, higher tannins, and the potential for aging, especially in exceptional vintages.

Experience Wine Tasting Sessions in Two Wineries

During the afternoon, we'll visit and indulge in wine tastings at two local wineries within the Bourgueil / Saint Nicolas de Bourgueil appellation. After a brief introduction to the winery's history, you may have the opportunity to explore the vineyards and witness the current state of the vines, depending on the winery visited. Some wineries may also offer tours of their technical installations and aging cellars. Following the informative tour, you'll participate in a guided tasting session, sampling a variety of wines produced on-site. While red wines dominate the region, some wineries also offer tastings of rosé, white, and sparkling wines.

Conclude the Tour with a Return to Tours

After the delightful wine tasting session in the Bourgueil wine region, it will be time to return to Tours. Our professional services will conclude as we drop you off, marking the end of an enchanting Loire Valley wine tour. Should you desire an unforgettable day trip from Paris, this tour can also be arranged as an exceptional excursion from the capital.

Immerse yourself in the Loire Valley's rich wine heritage and captivating landscapes by booking this extraordinary tour today!