Heading towards Vitiloire 2024!

Vitiloire is the iconic annual festival held in Tours, celebrating the wines and gastronomy of the Loire Valley. This year marked the 20th anniversary of Vitiloire, an event created in 2003 by the city of Tours. Since its inception, it has become an unmissable gathering, completely free, aimed at promoting and raising awareness about the Loire Valley region and its wines. The festival attracts thousands of visitors each year and brings together over a hundred exhibitors, including passionate winemakers and local gastronomy artisans. This year, the weather was exceptionally favorable, adding a magical touch to the event. It was truly a blessing to celebrate this memorable anniversary of Vitiloire. Looking forward to the next edition, Vitiloire 2024!

Vitiloire 2023 : 20th anniversary
Vitiloire 2023 : 20th anniversary
Partner offer
Logo Wine Access
Loire wines on sale
Great Loire Valley wines
Curated by experts !
sign-up and get
your first order

A sun-filled Vitiloire to celebrate its twentieth edition!

Vitiloire’s 2023 edition unfolded as usual, in the heart of the city on Boulevard Heurteloup, Place de la Gare, and in the Jardin de la Préfecture. Visitors were greeted by exceptionally sunny weather, with the tall plane trees along the boulevard providing welcome shade. The event drew a considerable crowd, as evidenced by the significant turnout captured in the photo.The 2023 edition of Vitiloire offered a range of highlights. A photography exhibition showcasing the Loire Valley vineyards caught the attention of photography enthusiasts and wine lovers alike. Tasting workshops allowed participants to explore food and wine pairings, as well as the grape varieties and appellations of the Loire, providing a delightful sensory experience.A grand pavilion at the entrance of Boulevard Heurteloup hosted masterclass-style workshops. Experts shared their culinary tips and knowledge with an attentive audience. These demonstrations provided a unique opportunity to learn cooking techniques and discover recipes that showcased the wines of the Loire Valley.
Vitiloire 2023 : many people this year thanks to glorious weather conditions
Vitiloire 2023 : many people this year thanks to glorious weather conditions

The practical guidebook and the Vitiloire tasting glass to never miss a tasting!

As usual, the 2023 edition of Vitiloire had a delightful surprise in store for visitors: a well-designed little booklet that brings together all the activities offered during the event! This valuable guide also includes a handy map of the stands, helping you easily locate your favorite winemakers.

Of course, some things come at a cost, even at Vitiloire. To be able to taste the wines on offer, purchasing the traditional engraved tasting glass is necessary. This year, the price of the glass was 6 euros, inflation got its way. But it’s still a steal for 48 hours of possible sips and savoring!

Vitiloire 2023 : 20th anniversary
Vitiloire 2023 : 20th anniversary

Vitiloire? It caters to all tastes, it's a powerhouse! (Anonymous quote from a seasoned taster, worth its weight in gold!)

Like in Formula 1, Vitiloire is a series of pit stops. But beware, it’s not a speed race, it’s still a marathon!

We ventured into the stands of the Vitiloire 2023 winemakers, ready to explore the myriad shades of Loire Valley wines. And boy, it was the full package, a true explosion of colors in every bottle! Bubbles that tickle the taste buds, crisp whites that refresh the soul, sweet wines that lovingly embrace, and reds that warm the heart. It’s a veritable rainbow of oenological pleasures that unfolds before us!

But be warned, my friends, danger lurks if we don’t exercise caution. With so many delights at hand, it’s tempting to taste everything without restraint. Yet let us remember that wine wisdom calls for spitting and savoring in moderation. Because, let’s admit it, there’s something magical in the ability to enjoy all the colors of Vitiloire wines while keeping a clear head on our shoulders.

So, grab your tasting glass and embark on an adventure in this vinicultural paradise that is Vitiloire 2023. But remember to play the card of prudence to avoid rough mornings. Cheers!

Château de Fontenay wines
Château de Fontenay wines

A festive atmosphere of camaraderie at Vitiloire 2023

Summing up Vitiloire? Easy! When I asked around, the response was, “Vitiloire? A festival that brings friends together over a glass or two (ha ha)!”

At Vitiloire, it’s like reuniting with long-time friends. The lighthearted spirit reigns supreme, and the liters of wine enjoyed contribute to the fun! We wander from booth to booth, discovering new wine gems, but it’s during the moments of pause that the magic happens.

Sitting on the lush lawns of the Jardin de la Préfecture, map in hand, laughter filling the air. Friendly challenges over a game of cards while others engage in lively discussions about the last wine tasted. Borders fade away, and it’s this joyful camaraderie that makes Vitiloire truly beautiful.

Vitiloire 2023 : enjoying the lawns in the Prefecture gardens
Vitiloire 2023 : enjoying the lawns in the Prefecture gardens

And no matter how many glasses are consumed, the atmosphere remains jovial. Winemakers generously share their passion, visitors transform into enlightened connoisseurs, and laughter echoes above the clinking of glasses. Because, after all, Vitiloire is more than just a wine festival; it’s an experience of sharing and camaraderie.

So, for Vitiloire 2024, come with friends, family, or loved ones and let yourself be carried away by this warm and friendly atmosphere that makes Vitiloire an unforgettable event. Cheers to health and friendship! (and here’s to Vitiloire 2024!)

Partner offer
Logo AllTrails
Vineyards around the village of Turquant (Saumur Champigny appellation) - Wine tasting tour in Saumur, France
Your Loire Valley trail app
Wine and nature lovers love the AllTrails app : offline maps, wrong-turn alerts, and lots more.