Discovering the renowned wine regions of Vouvray and Montlouis-sur-Loire is an enthralling morning adventure. A local expert leads a small group on an immersive 3.5-hour tour, delving into the histories and terroirs of these acclaimed appellations. From tasting dry, semi-dry, and sparkling Vouvrays paired with local cheeses to an in-depth winery exploration and sampling of the finest Montlouis offerings complemented by regional charcuterie, this journey promises to tantalize the senses and leave you with a newfound appreciation for the Loire Valley’s vibrant wine culture. What secrets will these celebrated vineyards unveil?
Key Points
- Explore the Vouvray and Montlouis wine regions, led by a local expert, on a 3.5-hour wine tour starting at the Tours Loire Valley Tourist Office.
- Visit Domaine Le Capitaine in Vouvray to learn about the region’s winemaking traditions, tour the 11th-century wine cellar, and taste a variety of Vouvray wines.
- Discover the unique terroir of Vouvray and Montlouis-sur-Loire through guided vineyard tours and learn about the winemaking process from grape selection to aging.
- Enjoy a tasting of dry, semi-dry, and sparkling Vouvray wines paired with carefully selected local cheeses to enhance the flavors.
- Tour the renowned Maison Laudacius winery in Montlouis-sur-Loire, explore the modern facilities, and taste a diverse array of the estate’s finest wines accompanied by local charcuterie.
Start at the Tourist Office
The tour begins at the Tourist Office in Tours Loire Valley, situated at the intersection of Boulevard Heurteloup and rue Bernard Palissy.
The guide, wearing a jacket with the VinoLoire logo, will be waiting to greet the small group of 8 participants and begin the 3.5-hour exploration of the Vouvray and Montlouis wine regions.
This is an opportunity to learn from a local expert, delving into the winemaking traditions and terroir of these renowned Loire Valley appellations.
The group will soon depart in an air-conditioned Mercedes van, bottled water in hand, eager to discover the hidden gems of the Vouvray and Montlouis vineyards.
Vouvray – Domaine Le Capitaine
From the comfort of the air-conditioned van, the group heads to the first stop of the tour – Domaine Le Capitaine in Vouvray. A local expert greets them at the winery, eager to share the history and traditions of this renowned appellation.
The tour begins with a stroll through the vineyards, where the guide explains the unique Vouvray terroir and its influence on the Chenin Blanc grape. Next, the group descends into the 11th-century, rock-hewn wine cellar, marveling at the centuries-old winemaking techniques.
The tasting that follows highlights the diversity of Vouvray’s styles – dry, semi-dry, and sparkling – each paired with local cheeses that complement the wines’ flavors.
Explore the historical Vouvray terroir.
Discover the centuries-old winemaking techniques.
Taste the diverse styles of Vouvray wines.
Savor the wines paired with local delicacies.
Vineyard Tour and Wine Tasting
After a brief stroll through the vineyards, the group descends into the 11th-century, rock-hewn wine cellar, where they marvel at the centuries-old winemaking techniques that have been preserved. The guide explains the intricate process, from the careful selection of grapes to the meticulous fermentation and aging. As the group sips on the dry, semi-dry, and sparkling wines, they’re struck by the complex flavors and aromas that reflect the unique terroir.
| Wine | Aroma | Flavor |
|---|---|---|
| Dry | Citrus, minerality | Crisp, zesty |
| Semi-Dry | Orchard fruits, floral | Balanced, lush |
| Sparkling | Yeast, brioche | Lively, refreshing |
The tasting is accompanied by a selection of local cheeses, perfectly complementing the diverse range of wines.
Pairing With Local Cheeses
As the group sips the diverse range of wines, they eagerly pair each vintage with the carefully selected local cheeses, creating a harmonious fusion of flavors and textures. The creamy Crottin de Chavignol complements the crisp minerality of the Vouvray Sec, while the nutty Sainte-Maure de Touraine enhances the off-dry notes of the Vouvray Demi-Sec. The group delights in discovering how the pungent Roquefort blue cheese accentuates the bold, fruit-forward character of the Montlouis-sur-Loire.
Cheese and wine are symbiotic, each elevating the other’s unique qualities.
Local artisanal producers craft these specialties with meticulous care.
Pairing is an art that requires understanding the nuances of both.
Experiential learning deepens one’s appreciation for regional terroir.
Montlouis-sur-Loire – Maison Laudacius
The tour then leads the group to the charming town of Montlouis-sur-Loire, where they visit the renowned Maison Laudacius winery.
Here, the enthusiastic vintner welcomes them and escorts them on an extensive exploration of the estate. They tour the modern winery, learning about the region’s unique terroir and the meticulous processes used to craft Montlouis, Chinon, Bourgueil, and Touraine Chenonceau wines.
The tasting that follows is a true delight, as the group samples a diverse array of the winery’s finest offerings, accompanied by delectable local charcuterie. With each sip, your gain a deeper appreciation for the exceptional quality and distinctive character of the Loire Valley’s renowned wines.
Winery Tour and Extensive Tasting
Upon arriving at the renowned Maison Laudacius winery, the group is warmly welcomed by the enthusiastic vintner, who then leads them on an extensive exploration of the estate.
The tour takes them through the winery’s modern facilities, where they learn about the meticulous processes involved in crafting the exceptional Montlouis, Chinon, Bourgueil, and Touraine Chenonceau wines.
The group is captivated by the vintner’s passionate storytelling, which provides insights into:
- The unique terroir and its influence on the wine’s character
- The family’s long-standing traditions and commitment to quality
- The innovative techniques used to ensure optimal flavor and balance
- The strong connection between the land, the grapes, and the final product
Accompanied by Local Charcuterie
After exploring the winery’s inner workings, the group eagerly settles in to savor the local charcuterie, which the vintner has carefully selected to complement the diverse range of wines they’re about to taste. The artisanal cured meats, from silky saucisson to robust rillettes, awaken the senses with their rich flavors and textures. As the tasting begins, the group discovers how the charcuterie’s smokiness, saltiness, and savory notes enhance the nuanced profiles of the Montlouis, Chinon, and Touraine Chenonceau wines. With each pairing, the complexity of the experience deepens, inviting the visitors to fully enjoy the gastronomic traditions of the Loire Valley.
| Wine | Charcuterie | Pairing Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Montlouis | Saucisson | Smoky saucisson accentuates the mineral notes in the Montlouis |
| Chinon | Rillettes | Creamy rillettes balance the bold tannins in the Chinon |
| Touraine Chenonceau | Terrine | Delicate terrine highlights the vibrant fruit flavors of the Chenonceau |
Return to Tourist Office
With a deeper appreciation for the diverse wines and rich culinary traditions of the Loire Valley, the group boards the air-conditioned Mercedes van for the return journey to the Tourist Office.
As they bid farewell to the picturesque vineyards and charming wineries, a sense of contentment lingers, the flavors and aromas of the tasting experience still fresh in their minds.
The tour has provided them with:
- A newfound understanding of the region’s unique terroir and winemaking practices
- An opportunity to savor the nuances of Loire Valley varietals, from crisp Vouvrays to bold Montlouis
- Memorable pairings of the wines with local delicacies, highlighting the synergy between the land and its produce
- A deeper appreciation for the artistry and passion that goes into crafting these exceptional wines
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
There is no specific dress code for the tour. Participants should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes, as the tour involves walking through vineyards and cellars. Casual, relaxed attire is recommended for the wine-focused experience.
Can I Purchase Wines During the Tour?
Yes, participants can purchase wines during the tour. The itinerary includes visits to two renowned wineries where travelers can sample a variety of local wines and purchase their favorites to take home as souvenirs.
Are Vegetarian/Vegan Options Available for the Tastings?
The wine tour offers vegetarian and vegan options for the tastings. Guests can enjoy the regional wines paired with appropriate local delicacies to accommodate various dietary needs and preferences throughout the experience.
What Happens if I Cannot Finish All the Wines?
If you can’t finish the tastings, no problem – you can take any unfinished wines home. The guide will provide sealable bottles for leftovers, so you can savor the wines at your leisure later.
Is Photography Allowed During the Visits?
Photography is generally permitted during the visits, allowing guests to capture the charming vineyards, historic cellars, and wine-tasting experiences. However, guests should be mindful not to disrupt the guided tours or distract from the winemakers’ presentations.
Recap
The morning Loire Valley wine tour in Vouvray and Montlouis is a delightful exploration of the region’s renowned terroir.
Visitors enjoy the distinct winemaking traditions, savor the exquisite pairings, and depart with a deeper appreciation for the area’s viticulture.
This comprehensive experience leaves participants with a memorable taste of the Loire Valley’s vibrant wine culture.
