Chinon is among the big names of French wine appellations and also a must-see city for wine lovers
Chinon is the first appellation of Loire red wines in terms of volume. The range of Chinon wine styles is quite wide: there are both light red wines, to be appreciated in their young yeards, as well as structured and powerful and tannic wines. Chinon also produces white and rosé wines.
Chinon is one of these ideal places for wine tasting.
As for the wineries, many of them open their doors for walk-ins during week days. But more rare are the wineries open on Sundays in Chinon (as everywhere else in the Loire Valley).
Here is a selection of three wineries. Even though they offer walk-in access to their cellar, it is always best to book. The welcoming will only be better!
Pierre and Bertrand Couly : an easily accessible winery, at the outskirts of Chinon, offering multiple wine-related activities
When you arrive from Azay-le-rideau via the D751 road, you cannot miss the ultra-modern cellar of the estate. Beyond the free tasting of its wines on site, Domaine Pierre and Bertrand Couly also offers other paying activities (guided tours, visit of the cellar, vineyards, food paring with rillons and rillettes local specialties, …).
Domaine des Béguineries : open on Sunday and great organic wines !
The Domaine des Béguineries is a family esate, certified organic since 2012. It is located on the banks of the Vienne river, 2 kms from the Château de Chinon and the city center, in the heart of the Chinon wine appellation. In addition to its acclaimed wines, the Domaine offers two lodges, one on the estate (for 6 people), the other larger and more luxurious can accommodate up to 14 people at the edge of the city of Chinon.
Domaine de Beauséjour: a relaxing stopover in the heart of the vineyards in Panzoult
The Domaine de Beauséjour is located in Panzoult, a dozen kilometers east of Chinon, at the exit of the D21 and in the heart of the vineyards. A family estate which also offers bed and breakfast accommodation, with a swimming pool and … a 360° view of the vineyards. For lovers of havens of peace. On the wine side, the estate offers a tour of the cellars and a tasting of red, rosé and sparkling Chinon wines. Enjoy.
