Touraine Wine Route: Discover the Vineyards and Flavours of Centre-Val de Loire

Cover photo credit: iStock © Bensliman hassan

The Wine Route invites you to explore the soul of the Centre-Val de Loire through its rolling landscapes, prestigious vineyards, and picturesque villages. As you travel along the route, you’ll cross lands shaped by centuries of wine-growing tradition. Renowned appellations showcase the richness and diversity of local grape varieties. Beyond the vineyards, the region enchants visitors with its history and art de vivre. Tourists are invited to discover scenic landscapes, explore majestic châteaux, and savour authentic cuisine. Whether you’re a wine lover or simply curious, this route is a true celebration of conviviality.

Discover the historic castles of the Wine Route

Discover the vineyards of the Centre-Val de Loire, with their richness and iconic grape varieties: Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin, Gamay, and Cabernet Franc. Explore prestigious appellations such as Chinon, Vouvray, and Touraine, paired with local specialities like tarte Tatin and rillettes de Tours. Don’t miss the majestic castles and unique troglodyte cellars, true treasures of the region’s heritage.

The Touraine Wine Route: step-by-step itinerary

Discover the Centre-Val de Loire region on a tour dedicated to its vineyards and unique heritage. Between wine tastings, cellar visits, and scenic vineyard landscapes, this itinerary invites you to explore the region’s many treasures.

The vineyards of Touraine and their appellations

Start your journey in the heart of the Touraine vineyards, renowned for their diverse grape varieties. Take the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local terroir by tasting regional wines such as Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin, Gamay, and Cabernet Franc, all of which flourish thanks to the temperate climate and varied soils.

Essential appellations: Chinon, Vouvray, Montlouis-sur-Loire, and of course, Touraine. Fruity reds, elegant whites, and refined sparkling wines offer a unique palette of flavours, perfect for pairing with local cuisine.

Domaine des Hardières 

Discover this wine-growing gem just north of Layon, spanning 23 hectares. Here, Chenin reigns supreme, producing a range of remarkable wines. Savour dry whites of great finesse and exceptional sweet wines, elevated by the influence of autumn mists. Take a stroll through the vineyards and enjoy a guided tasting experience that reveals the unique savoir-faire behind the estate.

Domaine de la Perruche 

Head to Montsoreau, where Domaine de la Perruche beautifully blends history and nature. Take in breathtaking views of the Château de Montsoreau, immortalised by Alexandre Dumas in La Dame de Montsoreau. Step back in time 45 metres beneath the vines as you explore a troglodyte cellar, a truly memorable experience. With its Level 3 High Environmental Value certification, the estate shows a strong commitment to biodiversity and responsible vinicultural practices.

Maison Ackerman 

Conclude your tour in Saumur at Maison Ackerman, a symbol of the Loire’s sparkling wine tradition since 1811. Discover Crémant de Loire, a meticulously crafted sparkling wine aged in troglodyte cellars. Gain a deeper understanding of the natural fermentation process and admire the ageing on lees, the key to the wine’s finesse and distinctive character.

Practical tips for your visit

The best time to enjoy Touraine wines is from May to September. For a quieter experience, consider travelling in spring, the perfect season to discover the region’s terroir alongside fellow enthusiasts. Take your time to meet local winegrowers, join guided tastings, and delve into the region’s history through curated tours.

The Touraine Wine Route is a tribute to the richness and diversity of an exceptional terroir. With its vineyards, châteaux, and gastronomy, it offers a memorable and authentic experience. Immerse yourself in the history, flavours, and expertise of this iconic region.

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