The Loire Valley, the jewel in France's wine-growing crown, stretches like a masterpiece, blending enchanting landscapes with centuries-old traditions. Renowned for its majestic châteaux and rich vineyards, this region is a veritable sanctuary for wine lovers. Growing vines here is not just an agricultural practice; it is an integral part of the local identity, a heritage handed down from generation to generation. In our hotels, we celebrate this wealth of viticulture through an immersion in oenology, offering our guests the opportunity to discover the subtleties of Loire Valley wines, particularly at Les Sources de Cheverny.
Domaine Le Portail :
Situated just 600 metres from the famous Château de Cheverny, Domaine Le Portail is a former monastery where vines have flourished for centuries. This family-run estate passionately cultivates 32 hectares of vines, producing wines under the Cheverny and Cour-Cheverny protected designations of origin. Tradition and history come together here, offering visitors an authentic experience in the heart of the Loire.
The estate offers tours and tastings from €10 per person, available every day from 10am to 6pm. Immerse yourself in the world of wine and discover not only the wines of the region, but also the know-how of the winegrowers who perpetuate this culture.
Maison des Vins de Cheverny :
Opened in 2008, the Maison des Vins de Cheverny is another must-see attraction for wine lovers. Dedicated to the promotion of AOC Cheverny and Cour Cheverny wines, the Maison des Vins Cheverny is growing fast thanks to its tasting system, the only one of its kind in Europe. Visitors can taste up to 100 references of AOC Cheverny red, white and rosé wines, as well as AOC Cour Cheverny white wines.
Three tasting options are available without prior reservation:
- Free tasting of the day's wines
- Tasting glass €4A choice of 3 wines to taste
- Tasting kit €7to taste a choice of 7 wines
Opening times vary: from 10 February to 5 April, the Maison is open from 11am to 1.15pm and from 2.15pm to 6pm.
Domaine des Huards :
Nearby, the Domaine des Huards, winegrowers since 1846, offers an enriching experience. Located in Cour-Cheverny, between the Loire and the Sologne, this family-run estate has been run using organic and biodynamic farming practices for the last fifteen years. Specialising in AOC Cheverny and Cour-Cheverny wines, it produces 100% Romorantin, a grape variety emblematic of the region.
The tour, which is recommended to last one hour, also includes a free tasting from 10am to 12pm and from 2pm to 6pm, with tastings starting at €24 per person.
Domaine de la Taille aux Loups - Montlouis-sur-Loire :
Renowned for its wines of unrivalled finesse, Domaine de la Taille aux Loups is a benchmark in Montlouis. Its elegant, complex Chenin Blancs capture the full expression of the terroir. A visit to this estate is an opportunity to discover wines of exceptional purity, sublimated by meticulous work in the vineyard and cellar.
François Chidaine's cellar - Montlouis-sur-Loire :
For an immersive experience, visit François Chidaine's tasting cellar. Situated on the banks of the Loire, this is a place that combines charm and conviviality. Here you can taste an impressive range of organic wines, made with passion and respect for the environment. The savoir-faire is evident in every glass, where the minerality and generosity of the wines reveal their full harmony.
Clos Naudin - The great Vouvray wines of Vincent Foreau :
In Vouvray, Clos Naudin, the historic estate run by Vincent Foreau, is another nugget not to be missed. Its Vouvrays, whether dry, sweet or sparkling, perfectly reflect the typicity of this prestigious appellation. The estate stands out for its traditional approach and respect for tradition, producing wines of remarkable depth and longevity.
In short, the Loire Valley and its vineyards are not just a celebration of winemaking, but also a journey through French history and culture. Whether at Domaine Le Portail, Maison des Vins de Cheverny or Domaine des Huards, each visit is an invitation to explore unique flavours while discovering the wine heritage of an exceptional region.
