So you’ve decided that the best way to discover the local wine is to take a guided tour around the vineyards.

Not only will you get the opportunity to taste the wine, but you will also see where and how the vines are grown, discover why the local terroir is so special, learn how the wine is produced and find out where the bottles are stored.

But before you head out on your voyage of discovery (aka wine tour), take a quick look at our tips to help you make the most of your wine tour around Châteaumeillant (or indeed any AOC in the Loire Valley or beyond!).

It may be warm outside but don’t forget to bring layers…

On a beautiful summer’s day (plus spring and autumn in Central France’s continental climate), there’s nothing better than taking a stroll through the vines and soaking up the sun.

But to truly see the full wine-making process from start to finish, a wine tour will also generally involve going inside to areas which are not so warm, such as where the wine is made and stored.

That means that it’s a good idea to take a cardigan or jumper with you on your tour, so you don’t get too chilly.

Take a look at our ultimate guide to tasting French wine

This is by no means a must, but if you are heading out on a wine tour around the Loire Valley, you may want to learn a little bit more about wine tasting, so that you can make the most of your wine tour.

As we mentioned in the guide, we think wine tasting is a very personal experience and anyone who tells you that you aren’t doing it ‘right’, is just plain wrong.

Filled with fun facts and interesting snippets, our guide to tasting French wine has been designed to enhance your enjoyment of your wine tour.

Relax and enjoy your wine tour

It is possible to organise your own visits to local vineyards, but one of the advantages of a guided wine tour, is that all of the hard work is done for you.

Your knowledgable guide will take you to all the best places and share the secrets of what makes Châteaumeillant wine so special, so you can just relax and have fun.

Plus, if you prefer to drink the wine you are tasting rather than spitting it out, a guided wine tour removes the need for a designated driver, as your guide can pick you up from where you’re staying.

If we have whet your appetite, why not book your Vineyard Tour around Châteaumeillant, a Loire Valley AOC and one of France’s best kept secrets? If you want to experience more of Le Berry’s delicious produce, why not book a Cheese and Wine Tour. We look forward to showing you around!