The vineyards of the Loire Valley extend over more than 1,000 km. The Loire wine region has been producing wine since the Gallo-Roman era. But it was in the 5th century, under the influence of the abbeys, that viniculture gained importance.

What can be said about the Loire wine region?

The Loire wine region is the largest area in France dedicated to grape growing. It stretches from the Auvergne to the Massif Central. Because of its large surface area, it includes many farms, each benefiting from a different climate depending on their geographical location. By visiting this region, you will discover the following vineyards.

The vineyards of Anjou

These vineyards are located between the communes of Saumur, Chalonnes-sur-Loire, Angers, Montsoreau and Thouars. Stretching over 140 km², they produce rosé, red and sparkling wines, as well as whites. There are also many AOCs such as Anjou, Quarts-de-chaume, Savennières and Saumur.

The vineyards of Nantes

The vineyards of Nantes are located between the Atlantic Ocean and Ancenis. They produce a great diversity of white wines and some reds and rosés. If you pass by, enjoy appellations such as Muscadet or Coteaux d'Ancenis.

The vineyards of Touraine

Spread over the departments of Indre, Vienne, Sarthe, Indre-et-Loire, Loiret and Loir-et-Cher, they extend from Saumur to Orléans. They are at the origin of the appellations Bourgueil, Chinon, Cheverny and many others.

The vineyards of the Centre

This vineyard includes many farms: those of the Orléanais, Centre-Loire and Massif Central. The Orléanais vineyards produce 3 AOCs. Those of the Centre-Loire include appellations such as Sancerre, Quincy and Châteaumeillant. Finally, in those of the Massif Central, you will find the AOC Côte-roannaise or Côtes-du-Forez.

What are the best places to visit cellars in the Loire region?

There are several estates and wineries in the Loire wine-growing region. So you have a wide choice of oenological discoveries to choose from. Here are a few places to visit.

The Château Soucherie

If you're passing through Beaulieu-sur-Layon, make a stop here. This historic site is known for its production of Anjou appellation wines. During your visit to this cellar in the Loire region, let yourself be seduced by the panorama and the beauty of the property.

On the spot, you will be able to indulge in many activities. Discover the wine storehouse of the castle as well as its vineyard. A wine tourism tour is also proposed. Finally, you will be able to enjoy various drinks with toasts or different dishes.

The Ménard-Gaborit Estate

Located in Monnières, this estate has developed over the years. In 1914, it launched its barrel cellar. However, it was not until 1947 that it carried out its first bottling.

When you visit, don't forget to visit the château's barrel cellar. And on occasion, let yourself be tempted by a tasting of wines from the Loire region.

The Domaine des Deux Arcs

During your stay in Martigné-Briand, make wine tourism by stopping at this farm. Situated 30 km from Angers, it is distinguished by its production of typical wines. Thanks to the special terrain of this estate, the farmers create drinks that are characteristic of Anjou.

During your visit, treat yourself to a ride across the estate in a horse-drawn carriage. You can then proceed to the tasting of various wines from the Loire region. You will notice that the atmosphere is more lively when the activity is done in a group.

The Loire is one of the essential stages of the Loire wine route.

Among the main cities of the Loire Valley are Tours, Touraine, Nantes and Sancerre.