Full Day Wine Tour in Vouvray and Chinon with LUNCH at the winery

A full-day wine adventure through the Loire Valley offers an engaging blend of visits to three distinct wine estates, a delicious “Farm to table” style lunch, and up to 20 wine tastings. Priced at $320.99 per person and lasting around 9 hours, this tour provides a comprehensive experience of the region’s renowned wines and gastronomy. It starts at the Tourist Office in Tours and is operated by VinoLoire wine tours, with a small group limit of 8 guests, ensuring a personalized and relaxed atmosphere.

This tour is ideal for wine enthusiasts who appreciate in-depth visits, expert commentary, and gourmet food pairings. Travelers should be prepared for a full day of exploring vineyards, caves, and charming estates, with comfortable transport in a chauffeured Mercedes minivan. The small group size enhances interaction with guides and allows for a more intimate experience.

Key Points

• Includes visits to three wineries in Vouvray, Bourgueil, and Chinon, each offering unique terroirs and wine styles.
• Up to 20 wine tastings, featuring white, red, and sparkling wines paired with local cheeses and gourmet delicacies.
• A 3-course “Farm to table” lunch at Chateau de Miniere, emphasizing local produce and a “0-kilometer” menu.
• Rock-hewn wine cellar tour in Vouvray, showcasing the region’s historic wine storage methods.
• Expert commentary tailored to different levels of wine knowledge from passionate guides.
• Comfortable transportation in a Mercedes minivan with transfers between stops, each lasting from 30 minutes to 1 hour.
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.
• Perfect for small groups seeking an immersive Loire Valley wine experience with a focus on gastronomy.

Visiting Domaine Le Capitaine and the Rock-Hewn Cellar in Vouvray

The tour begins at Domaine Le Capitaine in Vouvray, where the focus is on “Terroir” and the winemaking process. Here, the guide explains how the unique soil and climate influence the wines. A highlight is touring the rock-hewn cellar, several kilometers long, where the white wines typical of Vouvray—dry, half-dry, and sparkling—are sampled. Tastings include local cheeses, complementing the wines perfectly.

This stop lasts about 2 hours and includes admission tickets. The cave’s historical and geological interest adds an extra layer of fascination to the wine tasting.

Exploring Chateau de Miniere and the Gourmet Picnic in Bourgueil

Next, the journey takes visitors to Chateau de Miniere in Bourgueil. This estate is renowned for producing a range of sparkling, white, and red wines from different terroirs. The winery visit is combined with the “Farm to table” gourmet picnic lunch, emphasizing local, seasonal ingredients with a “0-kilometer” philosophy.

The lunch lasts about 2 hours, offering a relaxed setting where guests enjoy gourmet dishes paired with wines. The estate’s emphasis on sustainability and freshness makes it a memorable gastronomic stop, free of charge for admission.

Discovering the Unique Organic Wines of Chinon

The final stop features a winery in Chinon, notable for its organic red wines. The cellar here is unusual—dug over 30 years by the owner—and offers an intimate tasting environment. Visitors sample a large selection of organic reds, paired with local charcuterie including rillettes and rillons.

This 2-hour visit showcases the winery’s commitment to organic practices and craftsmanship, with free admission. The setting provides insight into sustainable wine production and the character of Chinon reds.

Transportation and Group Size

Transportation in this tour is provided in a luxurious Mercedes minivan, making travel between the estates comfortable and efficient. The group size is limited to 8 people, ensuring personalized attention from the guides. The transfers typically last 30 minutes to 1 hour between stops, allowing ample time for conversation and sightseeing.

This small-group approach fosters a relaxed atmosphere, enabling guests to ask questions and engage with the guides more easily. The meeting point is at the Tourist Office in Tours, with the tour starting promptly at 9:00 am.

Expert Guides and Personalized Commentary

The guides are praised for their knowledgeable, approachable style. Reviews highlight guides like Pierre, Alycea, Simon, Vincent, and Elisha as friendly and informative, capable of tailoring the experience to guest interests. They explain winemaking techniques, terroirs, and the region’s history with clarity, making the technical details accessible to all levels.

The guides also incorporate personal stories and local insights, enriching the overall experience. Their ability to manage the pace and respond to requests is a notable feature appreciated by guests.

The Gourmet “Farm to Table” Lunch Experience

A key highlight of this tour is the 3-course lunch at Chateau de Miniere. Emphasizing local ingredients, the meal exemplifies the “Farm to table” philosophy. The pairing of wines and dishes, coupled with a gourmet ambiance, elevates the tasting experience.

Guests enjoy a range of local cheeses and delicacies alongside the wines, making this meal an integral part of the full-day experience. The lunch duration is around 2 hours, allowing ample time to relax and savor the flavors.

Wine Tastings and Range of Wines Offered

Throughout the day, participants taste up to 20 wines, including white, red, and sparkling varieties. The tastings are generous, and the guide offers commentary tailored to different levels of wine knowledge. The wines sampled reflect the distinct terroirs of each estate, providing insight into regional differences.

At Domaine Le Capitaine, typical wines include dry, half-dry, and sparkling Vouvray. Chateau de Miniere features a variety of sparkling, white, and red wines, while the Chinon estate offers organic reds with a focus on sustainable practices.

Accessibility and Weather Considerations

The tour operates near public transportation, with confirmation received at booking. It is suitable for most travelers, with an age restriction of 18+ for wine tastings. The tour is dependent on good weather, and in case of poor weather conditions, a full refund or alternative date is offered.

Guests should be prepared for some walking at the estates, particularly at the rock-hewn cellar and vineyard visits, but overall the activity is manageable for most.

Cancellation Policy and Booking

Guests can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing flexibility for planning. The tour is booked on average 63 days in advance, reflecting its popularity.

The small group size and personalized approach contribute to a highly engaging experience, making it an attractive choice for those seeking depth and quality in their Loire Valley wine tour.

Full Day Loire Valley Wine Tour: A Well-Rounded Experience

This tour combines wine education, gastronomy, and regional charm into a seamless day. Visits to historic caves, charming estates, and a unique cellar create a diverse and immersive experience. The up to 20 tastings and gourmet lunch stand out as highlights, offering excellent value for the price of $320.99.

The knowledgeable guides and small-group setting ensure a personalized and memorable day. It’s particularly suited for wine lovers eager to explore the Loire’s diverse terroirs in comfort and style.

While the day is full and requires some physical activity, the highlights and expert storytelling make it a rewarding choice for those wanting an authentic taste of the region’s wines and cuisine.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of $320.99?
The full-day experience covers visits to three wineries, tastings of up to 20 wines, a gourmet 3-course lunch, and transportation in a luxury Mercedes minivan. Admission tickets are included at the vineyard stops.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 9 hours, starting at 9:00 am from the Tourist Office in Tours, and ends back at the same location.

Is this tour suitable for all wine knowledge levels?
Yes, the guides tailor the commentary to different levels, making it accessible whether you’re a novice or a seasoned wine enthusiast.

What type of wines will I taste?
You will sample a variety of white, red, and sparkling wines, specific to each estate’s terroir, with some tastings paired with cheeses and delicacies.

Can I participate if I am not 18+?
No, wine tastings are limited to guests aged 18 and over.

What is the cancellation policy?
Guests can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, with full refunds available if canceled within that window.

What makes this tour different from others in the region?
The small group size, personalized guides, diverse stops, and premium lunch experience make this tour stand out, offering an in-depth look at Loire Valley wines and gastronomy.

Is the transportation comfortable?
Yes, all transfers are in a luxury Mercedes minivan, providing comfort between visits and allowing guests to relax during the day.

Are the stops accessible for people with walking difficulties?
While most estates are manageable, some walking at vineyards and caves is involved. Guests should be prepared for a bit of activity, but detailed accessibility info is not specified.

How far in advance should I book?
This tour is typically booked about 63 days ahead, reflecting high demand and the importance of securing a spot early.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
The information does not specify dietary options, but the gourmet lunch is a key feature, so it’s recommended to inquire directly if you have special needs.

Is weather a concern?
Yes, the tour is weather-dependent; in case of poor weather, a full refund or alternative date is offered.