Get ready for Bonne Cuvée’s next wine adventure:
The magnificent Loire Valley in France!
April 19 to 25, 2026
The Loire Valley: A Journey Through History, Wine, and Beauty
For wine lovers, the Loire Valley is a treasure trove—an important region that produces an array of wines from some of the world’s most celebrated grape varietals. This fertile, agricultural area is not only a winemaking powerhouse but also rich in history. It is home to landmarks of French heritage such as Joan of Arc’s victory at Orléans, the backdrop of the Hundred Years’ War, and the final resting place of Leonardo da Vinci.
Before the French court relocated to Paris, the Loire Valley was the seat of royalty. As a result, the riverbanks are dotted with magnificent châteaux, many dating back to the 12th century. It’s a remarkable destination for anyone drawn to history, architecture, and, of course, exceptional wine.
A River of Vines: The Loire’s Wine Regions from East to West
The Loire Valley stretches across central France, its river flowing from east to west toward its mouth near Nantes. Along its course, distinct wine regions flourish, each with its own grape varietals and terroir.
At the eastern edge lies the Centre-Loire, often considered the original home of Sauvignon Blanc—a grape that has since achieved global acclaim in places like the U.S., South Africa, and New Zealand. The vines here grow in ancient seabed soils such as Silex, Kimmeridgian, and Oxfordian limestone, producing some of the most elegant and expressive Sauvignon Blancs in the world. Towns like Sancerre and Pouilly-sur-Loire are renowned for their bright, mineral-driven wines—ideal with grilled fish or raw oysters.
As the river reaches Orléans, where Joan of Arc led a decisive victory in the 1400s, it bends westward into the heart of the Loire’s wine country: Touraine and Anjou-Saumur.
Our tour will be based in the city of Tours, surrounded by the vineyards of Vouvray (noted for Chenin Blanc-based white wines), Chinon and Bourgueil (famous for red wines made primarily from Cabernet Franc). In this region, Chenin Blanc dominates the whites, offering tastes from dry to lusciously sweet, while Cabernet Franc, typically a blending grape in Bordeaux, stands on its own.
The landscape of the Loire Valley is regal. Dozens of castles overlook the river, their stained-glass windows emblazoned with the fleur-de-lis, symbol of French royalty. Leonardo da Vinci spent his final years in this region under the patronage of King Francis I. He died at the Château du Clos Lucé in Amboise. Among the works he brought with him from Italy was the Mona Lisa, which now hangs in the Louvre thanks to this historic move. Da Vinci is also said to have influenced the design of the extravagant Château de Chambord, with its 365 chimneys (one for each day of the year) and Renaissance grandeur.
Wines of Saumur
Further west lie the wine regions of Anjou-Saumur, where Chenin Blanc continues to shine in dry and sweet styles. These wines are often more affordable than those from more famous regions, making them a great discovery for wine enthusiasts. The area produces a broad spectrum of reds, whites, sparkling wines, rosés, and luscious dessert wines.
Bonne Cuvée’s Wine Tour in the Loire Valley—with a base in Tours—is a captivating journey through one of France’s most picturesque and diverse wine regions. With its gentle landscapes, storied châteaux, and celebrated vineyards, the Loire offers the perfect blend of culture, history, and of course, wine.
Indulge in the splendor of the Loire Valley—where elegance, authenticity, and heritage come together in every moment.
All wine levels are welcomed and taken into consideration when we plan our groups. If you want to be part of an educational, relaxing, fun and interactive wine experience, then this tour is for you!
Groups are very limited in size to keep our wine tours personal.