Loire Valley Wines
Once you've chosen your accommodation at Le Chant, you can look forward to tasting some of the best wines that the Loire has to offer!
The Loire is the longest river in France. With a length of 1,013 kilometres (629 mi). It rises (starts) in the Cevennes in the departement of Ardèche at 1,350 m (4,430 ft) near Mont Gerbier de Jonc and flows into the Bay of Biscay. Along its length there are many areas of land given over to the growing of vines specifically for wine-making. In the area near to us, here in what's known as the Western Loire, we're fortunate to have almost perfect growing conditions.
There's a great 'at a glance' guide to the region's wines here. Our local 'appellations' are Bourgueil, Chinon, Anjou and of course, Saumur. Within the boundaries of Saumur, you'll now find four, not three appellations, with the recent addition of the AOC Le Puy Notre Dame.
Le Puy Notre Dame
This tiny village, situated in the heart of some of the finest Loire scenery, is where we at Le Chant d'Oiseau would lead you on a personal wine tour and tasting. We've teamed up with a very well known and respected domaine to offer our guests the chance to learn more about the Loire and its wines from a respected, and experienced sommelier. Unlike many of the 'standard' tours in and around the area, Gérald speaks fluent English, or, if you prefer, he can chat quite happily to you in his native tongue - French! Here, you'll visit the vineyards for an explanation of the different techniques used to grow and cultivate the vine. So many things are important, not just the Loire sunshine, but the type of ground (terroir), rainfall, whether the grass is left between the vines or not! So many factors combine to make a truly outstanding wine, and Gérald will explain to you just how it's done! You'll visit the chai, where the fermentation takes place, then underground to see just a small section of what is a vast underground wine cellar! Returning to the surface, you'll be led in an appreciation of 15 or 16 (sometimes more) different wines, and your tasting will be enhanced by what you've just seen, and heard from Gérald.
These wine tours and tastings are indeed personal, and lasts in the region of two hours. They've proven immensely popular with guests here at Le Chant. Here's what a few have had to say:
"Excellent 2-hr tour with Gérald, with no pressure to buy at all. Excellent value for money. Brilliant not to have to drive - many thanks Stu for the lift" Julian & James Cavalot.
"What an interesting morning! Thank you Gérald for such a memorable wine tour and wine tasting.." Phil & Sophie Arneil.
"Compliments to Gérald. Brilliant wine tour and fantastic Domaine. Thank you." Liz & Alex, Manchester.
Don't just take their word for it - have a look at what people are saying about Gérald on TripAdvisor too.
A personal tour and tasting with Gérald, booked through Le Chant d'Oiseau will cost just €30 per person in 2012. For an extra €5 per person, we'll drive you there and back, allowing you all to taste, without fear of drinking and driving. To reserve your personal wine tour and tasting with Gérald, please Contact Us to check on availability.
"Never will I look at wines in the same way again. Thanks to Gérald for a superb tour and tasting - worth every centime!" Barry & Sue Redstone.
Here's a few links covering aspects of the Loire Valley wines that you may find interesting.
Vins de Loire ~ Loire Valley Wine ~ The Wine Doctor ~ Jim's Loire
À bientôt!
Stu & Syb Bradley. Le Chant d'Oiseau.
