Chinon wines were once celebrated in the writings of the 16th-century writer and humanist François Rabelais. These wines, also known as “Petit Breton,” were prized by the kings and queens of France and were also exported by sea to the Netherlands.

The Chinon appellation* encompasses a diverse terroir: terraces along the Loire River, hillsides, and plateaus.

From younger wines with notes of red fruit to older vintages with notes of black fruit, taste the work of passionate winemakers who also highlight their single-vineyard selections. The appellation* also offers Chenin Blanc wines that are quite different from those of the Vouvray appellation, with a surprising minerality. This tour includes a stop in the vineyards, a visit to the winery and cellar, followed by a tasting of wines from the family estate.