Full Day Wine Tour in Vouvray and Chinon with LUNCH at the winery

If you’re dreaming of a day dedicated to tasting some of France’s most celebrated wines, this full-day Loire Valley wine tour offers an unforgettable experience. From discovering the unique terroirs of Vouvray, Bourgueil, and Chinon to savoring a gourmet “farm to table” lunch paired with local wines, this excursion combines education, indulgence, and scenic beauty—all within a small, intimate group.

One of the standout features of this tour is the way it balances behind-the-scenes visits to historic vineyards and rock-hewn cellars with engaging tastings that up to 20 different wines. Plus, the guide’s passion and knowledge make learning about wine both accessible and fun. A potential drawback? It’s a full day, so expect a fair amount of time on the road, which is worth considering if you prefer a more relaxed pace.

Ideal for wine aficionados, food lovers, or anyone wanting a comprehensive taste of Loire’s best, this tour promises a deeply authentic experience that goes beyond just sipping wine. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious beginner, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Intimate Small Group: With a maximum of 8 travelers, expect personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.
• Diverse Tastings: Up to 20 wines, including whites, reds, and sparkling varieties, paired with local cheeses and delicacies.
• Authentic Visits: Explore three distinctive estates, including rock-hewn cellars and a 14th-century winery, for a real sense of regional character.
• Gourmet Lunch: Enjoy a thoughtfully prepared farm-to-table three-course meal, emphasizing local ingredients and a “0-kilometer” philosophy.
• Educational Experience: Learn about “Terroir” and the wine-making process through commentary tailored to your knowledge level.
• Comfort and Convenience: Traveling in a plush Mercedes minivan with a knowledgeable guide makes the day seamless and enjoyable.

The Itinerary: A Deep Dive

Stop 1: Domaine Le Capitaine in Vouvray

This first stop sets the tone for the day, starting with a visit to a renowned vineyard specializing in wines from Vouvray. Here, the focus is on understanding “Terroir” — the unique combination of soil, climate, and vineyard practices that influence each wine. The guide explains how the chalky soils and limestone deposits shape the white wines typical of Vouvray.

You’ll tour a rock-hewn wine cellar, which stretches several kilometers beneath the estate. This is a highlight, offering a glimpse into traditional wine storage methods that have persisted over centuries. The tasting features a selection of dry, half-dry, and sparkling wines, paired with local cheeses. Reviewers loved this stop, with one noting that the tastings were generous and the wines felt very representative of the region.

Stop 2: Chateau de Miniere in Bourgueil

Next, the tour heads to Bourgueil, a region known for its vibrant reds. The estate here champions the “farm to table” philosophy, offering a “0-kilometer” gourmet picnic lunch. This isn’t just a quick bite; it’s a carefully curated three-course meal emphasizing local ingredients, prepared by a chef committed to sustainability.

The wines tasted here include sparkling, white, and reds, each reflecting different terroirs within Bourgueil. Reviewers particularly appreciated the way the lunch was paired with wines, enhancing the flavors of both. The setting itself, a charming chateau, adds to the experience, making it more than just a tasting, but a true taste of local culture.

Stop 3: Organic Wines in Chinon

The final stop is at a unique Chinon winery, featuring a cellar carved out by the grower himself over 30 years. This personal touch really makes an impression, offering a rare peek into a winemaker’s creative process. The estate specializes in organic reds, and the tasting includes a broad array of these wines paired with local charcuterie, such as rillettes and rillons.

Guests consistently praise this stop for its authenticity and the enthusiasm of the guide, who explains each wine’s story and the organic practices involved. One reviewer mentioned that the wines, especially the reds, were spectacular and clearly made with passion.

Transportation and Timing

Throughout the day, all transfers are comfortably managed in a Mercedes minivan, with the travel time between sites ranging from 30 minutes to just over an hour. This setup keeps the day flowing smoothly without feeling rushed. The tour starts at 9:00 am and concludes back at the meeting point in Tours, about 9 hours later, ensuring plenty of time to savor each experience without fatigue.

The Experience: What Sets It Apart

The beauty of this tour is its balance of education, taste, and scenery. With a maximum of 8 participants, you get personalized attention, which reviewers note as a significant plus. Guides like Pierre, Alycea, and Vincent are praised for their extensive knowledge and friendly approach—traits that help make complex topics about wine and terroir accessible and engaging.

The tastings are notably generous, with some reviewers mentioning tasting up to 20 wines throughout the day. The pairing with cheeses, charcuterie, and a carefully prepared lunch elevates the experience from simple tastings to a true gastronomic adventure.

Another point of praise is the diversity of stops. From exploring ancient rock cellars to tasting wines directly from organic estates, each visit offers something different. The personalized commentary and relaxed pace allow for questions and deeper understanding, which many visitors find invaluable.

Value for Money

At $320.99 per person, this tour offers substantial value for those keen to spend a full day seeing Loire Valley wines. Considering the inclusion of up to 20 tastings, a gourmet lunch, private transport, and guided commentary, it’s a comprehensive experience that’s well worth the price.

Possible Downsides

The main consideration? The day can be quite full, with around nine hours of activity. Travelers who prefer a more leisurely pace may find the schedule a bit packed. Also, the tour is limited to participants aged 18+ for the tastings, which might be a restriction for some groups.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for wine lovers eager to explore multiple regions in one day, especially those wanting to learn about “Terroir” and traditional cellaring techniques. It’s perfect for curious beginners and seasoned connoisseurs alike, thanks to the tailored commentary. Foodies will also appreciate the gourmet lunch and local delicacies pairing.

If you’re after a comprehensive, authentic Loire Valley experience that balances education, tasting, and scenic drives, this tour delivers. It’s especially suitable for small groups who enjoy a more intimate, relaxed setting as opposed to large, impersonal tours.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the starting point for the tour?
The tour begins at the Tourist Office in Tours, located at 78 Rue Bernard Palissy, at 9:00 am.

How long does the tour last?
The whole experience lasts approximately 9 hours, including travel time between sites.

What wines will I taste?
You can expect to try up to 20 wines, including whites, reds, and sparkling varieties, typical of Vouvray, Bourgueil, and Chinon.

Is the tour suitable for non-drinkers?
The wine tastings are only for participants aged 18 and over, but non-drinkers can still enjoy the sightseeing and lunch.

What’s included in the lunch?
A three-course “farm to table” gourmet picnic, featuring local ingredients and paired with wines.

How many people are in each group?
Maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, all transfers are in a comfortable Mercedes minivan, with travel times between sites included.

Is the guide knowledgeable?
Absolutely, reviews highlight guides like Pierre, Alycea, and Vincent for being friendly, approachable, and well-informed about the wines and region.

Are the wine tastings included in the price?
Yes, tastings at each estate are part of the tour, with the potential to sample up to 20 different wines.

Final Thoughts

This full-day Loire Valley wine tour offers a perfect blend of education, authentic visits, and delicious food. With a small-group setting, personalized guides, and a focus on regional terroirs, it’s designed to give you a genuine taste of France’s celebrated wine heritage. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or someone simply looking for a memorable day in the vineyards, this tour provides excellent value and a well-rounded experience.

The stops include a historic rock cellar in Vouvray, a scenic farm-to-table lunch estate in Bourgueil, and a personal touch with a family-run organic winery in Chinon—each adding layers to your understanding and appreciation of Loire wines. The generous tastings, local cheeses, and picturesque scenery make this a day to cherish.

If you’re keen to explore the Loire’s wines with expert guidance and in a relaxed setting, this tour is a smart choice—particularly for those who want to combine tasting with cultural insights and good food. Planning ahead is wise, as this popular experience tends to fill up, usually booked around two months in advance.

In short, it’s a comprehensive, authentic, and delicious way to spend a day in France’s most enchanting wine-producing region.