The Loire Valley wine route, on foot!

In early September, I went for a walk in the Loire Valley to taste wine, hiking and exploring the vineyards. A fantastic concept organized every year; the 2015 edition of Vignes Vins Rando attracted more than ten thousand wine-loving hikers. Here's a look back at my trip!

The concept of Vines, Wines, and Hiking

Vignes Vins Rando is an opportunity to meet producers and winemakers who are dedicated to sharing their terroir. With classic options, family-friendly routes, and opportunities to explore on foot, horseback, or by bike, there's something for everyone to discover theLoire Valley and its diverse appellations ( Anjou-Villages , Coteaux d'Ancenis, Savennières , Bonnezeaux , Vouvray , Saumur-Champigny , Muscadet Sèvre et Maine, etc. ).

New for 2015 for those who love bubbles: the Saumur-Fines bubble course (fully booked a few days after registration opened…).

A stroll along the Loire

Off to Beaumont-en-Véron to discover Chinon ! Equipped with my wine kit and guided by a producer, I set off to discover a flagship appellation of the Loire Valley against a backdrop of landscape classified as a UNESCO heritage site.

First stop in the heart of a truffle orchard where I am offered the pairing of toast with truffle butter and red Chinon wine.

I then met the Galle brothers from Domaine de la Boulaie, who proudly presented me with their truffles: two adorable Labradors who accompany them daily.

We continue our walk towards the Manoir la Courtinière, a historical monument dating from the late 15th century, where a group of winemakers await us. The owners, Laurence and Christian Millerand, allow us to discover their home and their wine: Chinon Rouge Cuvée Tradition.

After tasting the unmissable rillons, we resume our walk along the Vienne to meet the freshwater fishermen.

They share their expertise with us over a fish puff pastry accompanied by "Chinon Blanc" and rosé wine.

At the Renaissance-era Château de Coulaine, a historical tour of the barrel cellar is offered. The tasting took place with a red Chinon wine and goat cheese.

Our hike ends at the VVR village where we continue the day in a festive and lively atmosphere for the "winegrowers' meal". And it's anything but dull!

Aude Bellavoine (Les Grappes)

Pourquoi nous faire confiance ?

Depuis 2014, chez Les Grappes, nous partons à la rencontre de vignerons passionnés partout en France pour dénicher des vins authentiques, vivants et pleins d'histoire. En travaillant directement avec plus de 500 vignerons, nous sélectionnons des cuvées que nous aimons vraiment et que nous avons envie de vous faire découvrir.

Ce blog est le prolongement de cette aventure. On y partage nos découvertes, nos conseils, nos coups de cœur, nos meilleurs accords mets-vins, des idées de dégustation et tout ce qui nous anime au quotidien autour du vin.

L'objectif est simple : vous aider à choisir des bouteilles qui vous ressemblent et à prendre encore plus de plaisir à les déguster.