A Warm Welcome to Château du Petit Thouars

Nestled in the heart of the Touraine, the Château du Petit Thouars is a family-run vineyard that has been passed down through generations since 1634. As my wife and I arrived, we were greeted by the charming Sebastian, the current owner, whose passion for winemaking is as palpable as the rich aroma of the vines surrounding us. Accompanying him was Pedro, his knowledgeable assistant, who would guide us through the intricacies of the vineyard.

The château itself is a sight to behold, an impressive property set against the backdrop of the lush Loire Valley. As we embarked on our tour, Sebastian and Pedro shared their extensive knowledge of the vineyard, weaving in delightful anecdotes and stories that brought the history of the place to life. Their enthusiasm was infectious, and it was clear that they took great pride in their craft.

A Journey Through the Vines and Cellars

Our journey began with a leisurely stroll through the vineyards, where rows of Cabernet Franc and Chenin Blanc grapes basked in the gentle sunlight. The air was filled with the earthy scent of the soil, a reminder of the terroir that gives these wines their unique character. As we walked, Pedro explained the meticulous process of cultivating the vines, from pruning to harvesting, each step crucial in producing the finest wines.

We then descended into the cool, hollowed limestone caves that serve as the château’s cellars. Here, the wines age gracefully in French oak casks, a tradition that has been upheld for centuries. The atmosphere was serene, almost reverent, as we learned about the aging process and the delicate balance required to achieve the perfect flavor profile.

A Picnic to Remember

After our enlightening tour, we were led to a private picnic spot overlooking the vineyards. The table was elegantly set, and the view was nothing short of breathtaking. We selected a bottle of the 2009 red, its velvety smoothness a testament to the craftsmanship of the winemakers.

The picnic itself was a feast for the senses. Freshly baked bread, fine cheeses, and pâté were accompanied by vibrant salads, each dish a celebration of local produce. The pièce de résistance was a delicate pastry from a nearby patisserie, its sweetness a perfect complement to the rich flavors of the wine.

As we savored each bite, the warmth and generosity of our hosts made the experience all the more memorable. It was a day of indulgence and discovery, a true highlight of our journey through the Touraine. For those seeking an authentic taste of the Loire Valley, I cannot recommend the Picnic in the Vines experience enough.