Published on : 29 November 20213 min reading time
The vineyards of Anjou and Saumur have an oceanic climate but are warmer and drier than in the Nantes region. In autumn, humidity and fog favor the appearance of the noble rot necessary for the production of sweet wines. To the west, in Angers, the soils are composed of rocks and schists, which are conducive to quality viticulture. To the east, in the Saumur region, the soils are composed of limestone and tufa chalk, which give the wines beautiful mineral notes. Whether it is red, rosé, white, sweet or sparkling, discover the particularity of these wines and their different appellations: Anjou, Cabernet d’Anjou, Savennières, Coteaux du Layon, Saumur, Bonnezeaux… Visit touraineloirevalley.co.uk/ and learn more about the best wines of Loire.
Discover the park and the vineyard
Start this route of Anjou and Saumur wines with a first visit to the wine estate in the village of Savennières. This typical 19th century Angevin property has received numerous distinctions in specialised guides (Revue du Vin de France, Bettane & Desseauve, Hachette…). You can choose to discover the estate freely or by guided tour. You will discover the park and the vineyard and enjoy a commented tasting of the estate’s wines. An introductory tasting workshop is also available.
5 kilometres south of the Domaine du Closel, discover another family property cultivating its vineyards organically. The FL estate offers a tasting on many appellations in the region (Anjou, Coteaux du Layon, Quarts de Chaume, Savennières…), which will allow you to discover the rich aromatic diversity of the Anjou terroirs. You will also enjoy a breathtaking view of the vineyards and the Loire Valley. To know everything about the things to see and visit in
Immerse yourself in the heart of the Renaissance
Then, go direction Angers, the capital of Anjou, to discover its castle, its cathedral and its other historical monuments. Immerse yourself in the heart of the Renaissance and stroll through its cobbled streets where you can admire its wooden facades.
20 minutes south of Angers, discover the Château de Brissac, the highest castle in France with its 7 floors and 204 rooms. Classified as a historic monument since 1958, this castle has a breathtaking architecture. You can admire its decorations (tapestries, gold leaves, furniture…), its 16th century chapel, its theatre and its park decorated with centenary trees.
Then, we head for the city of Saumur, equestrian capital and famous for its castle, the most emblematic building in the city. The ascent of the fort will offer you a splendid panoramic view of the city of Saumur and the Loire. Also enjoy its historic city center and don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Isle of Offard, accessible via the Loire Bridge.
On the outskirts of the city, do not miss visiting the Bouvet Ladubay estate and its kilometres of underground cellars dug into the tuffeau. You can taste the famous sparkling wine of the region, called Brut de Loire. Several options are available for you to visit, including one by bike, to discover the cellars in an unusual way, equipped with a headlamp.