The Loire Valley wine route, on foot!

At the beginning of September, I went for a walk in the Loire Valley for wine tasting, hiking, and in the vineyards. A more than nice concept organized every year; the 2015 edition of Vignes Vins Rando attracted more than ten thousand rando-oenophiles. Back on my journey!

The concept of Vignes Vins Rando

Vignes Vins Rando is an opportunity to meet producers and harvesters who are mobilized to discover their terroir. Classical formulas, family routes, on foot, on horseback, by bike... A great way to discover the Loire Valley in all its forms.ons possible, and its various appellations (Anjou-Villages, Coteaux d'Ancenis, Savennières, Bonnezeaux, Vouvray, Saumur-Champigny, Muscadet Sèvre et Maine...)

The novelty in 2015 for those who love bubbles: the Saumur-Fines bulle course (full a few days after the opening of registrations).

The walk in the Loire

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

First stop in the heart of a truffle field where I am offered the truffle butter toast/red chinon agreement.

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

We continue the walk towards the Manoir la Courtinière, a historical monument from the end of the 15th century where a horde of winegrowers are waiting for us. The owners Laurence and Christian Millerand let us discover their house at the same time as their wine: the Chinon Rouge cuvée Tradition.

After tasting the unmistakable rillons, we walk along the Vienne river to meet the freshwater fishermen.

The latter shared their know-how with us around a fish puff pastry accompanied by "Chinon Blanc" and rosé.

At the Château de Coulaine dating from the Renaissance, a historical visit of the barrel cellar is organized. The tasting was around a red chinon with 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 not sad!

Aude Bellavoine (Les Grappes)