Loire Valley Sojourn With a Special Focus on Bio Dynamic Producers
The natural wine movement has been gaining momentum over the last few years, in both the old and new world wine communities. Organic and biodynamic winemaking are multi-faceted concepts. In short, organic grapes are grown avoiding any synthetic pesticides or additives. Organic wines are made from organically grown grapes, but generally without any added sulfites. Bio dynamism not only avoids chemical or synthetic additives, but is a conscientious, holistic practice of viticulture. From the growing of the fruit, to the post-harvest processing it views vineyards as an entire ecosystem, and considers lunar cycles and astrological influences. Join us as we take you to a region centuries old, laden with history and Renaissance castles, introducing you to some of the individuals pioneering this movement with passion and creativity that you can taste, while contrasting the experience with renowned domains using conventional methods.
Day 1 – Arrival in the Loire Valley Known as the Garden of France, the Loire Valley contains many important sites and historical châteaux, which were royal hunting grounds for the Kings of France. Producing original and notable wines, the region was divided into smaller appellations. You may recognize Anjou, Bourgueil, Saumur, and Touraine, to name a few. Loire Valley wines are known for their excellent value and moderate alcohol, as well as their refreshing acidity and minerality, and the pure expression of the varietal and terroir.
Upon arrival at the train station in Tours, you will be met by your chauffeur and taken to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of the evening as it suites you.
Dinner at leisure and overnight at your accommodation. Day 2 – Chinon and Bourgueil
Into The Vineyard – www.IntoTheVineyard.com Email: [email protected] Toll Free: 1 855 848 3899 Suite 200 - 1807 Maritime Mews. Vancouver, Canada, V6H 3W7 2
This morning, meet your guide at your hotel to begin exploring the wine region in which you have landed. As you drive, they will provide fascinating insight into the history and vineyards of the Loire Valley and Bourgueil Terroir. Today you will discover three domains of the region.
Begin this morning with a visit to Domaine de la Chevalerie in Restigné to taste the productions of Stéphanie, Emmanuel & Pierre Caslot. With a long family history of talented winemakers, the knowledge of the estate vines has been passed down with immeasurable precision and care. A family member or colleague will accompany you and your guide into the head to the 11CE cellars, among the oldest in the regions, where their vintages, which are occasionally offered for sale, are stored.
You will have the option of both vertical and horizontal tastings of a large selection of wines, including biodynamic productions.
Continue the afternoon with some gastronomy. You will be welcomed by a professional Chef at a restaurant in Ingrandes for a hands-on cooking lesson. Listen to the chef's philosophy, "a zero- kilometer menu", and begin to understand the importance of supporting local agriculture. You will even have the opportunity to pick the produce for your class from the on-site vegetable garden. Spend about an hour preparing the meal, before sitting down to indulge in your creation, as a 3-course lunch accompanied by Bourgueil wine.
Into The Vineyard – www.IntoTheVineyard.com Email: [email protected] Toll Free: 1 855 848 3899 Suite 200 - 1807 Maritime Mews. Vancouver, Canada, V6H 3W7 3
This afternoon, we will bring you to meet one of our preferred producers in the region – Xavier Amirault from Le Clos des Quarterons. You will have the chance to discuss the different terroirs of the appellation, the effect of microclimate, and soil characteristics, as well as taste from some excellent vintages at the propertiy and in the limestone cellar. Experience the level of passion that new-age producers possess, and come to appreciate why they should be proud of the work they are doing. Visit the cellars of Domaine Amirault, and mature your pallet for wines of bio dynamism with a generous
tasting of the domain’s fleet.
Continue with a third tasting of the day, this time in Chinon. Discover an original cellar, hewn from the rock by the vine grower himself. Taste a range of organic wines, discussing their differentiating characteristics with the winemaker if they are available.
Upon conclusion of the afternoon, you will be returned to your hotel. Dinner at leisure and overnight at your accommodation
Day 3 – Vouvray & Chenonceau You will be met by your private guide at in the lobby of your hotel.
Our first stop of the day will be Domaine Vincent Carême in Vernou. Vincent Carême has been producing organic wines for quite some time, and is striving towards a classification in bio dynamism. Stroll through the vines and hear the recount of the history of the winery, and descriptions of the soil, climate, and geography that shapes the fruit produced. The grapes are picked by hand and pressed gently and then the natural yeasts are allowed to do their work. Your walk will
Into The Vineyard – www.IntoTheVineyard.com Email: [email protected] Toll Free: 1 855 848 3899 Suite 200 - 1807 Maritime Mews. Vancouver, Canada, V6H 3W7 4
end in the ancient cellar where you will experience a tasting of different whites typical of Vouvray, including sparkling, dry and half-dry wines.
Lunch will be had on the river Cher. Discover the river, admiring the impressive arches of the Chateau Chenonceau from the south bank, and views of the Loire Valley countryside’s forest and vineyards as you drift along spotting bird and wildlife on the shores. Demonstrating a mix between Renaissance and Gothic architecture, this Loire Chateau is one of the best known in the valley, particularly for the beauty of its Renaissance gardens. Also referred to as “Chateau des Dames”, famous for the great feminine figures such as Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de Medici who lived in it, the castle forms a bridge which spans the River Cher.
Enjoy a picnic lunch on board, with regional specialities, cheese, cold meat, dessert and wine. Alternatively, we can arrange to have you brought to a winery close to shore for lunch at an estate.
Afterwards, head to the beautiful castle you could see from a distance, and discover the Renaissance jewel. Visit the gardens of the estate, as well as the farm on-property.
Optional Extra Experience: Enjoy a tour of the Castle with a private, professional guide, who is armed with in-depth knowledge of the history and architecture.
Optional Extra Experience: We can arrange bikes for you to explore the Cher River by bicycle. Treat yourself o a great view of the fairy-tale chateau, riding through the countryside enroute to a wine estate. Upon arrival, estate members will welcome you for a visit and tasting of their selection.
Optional Extra Experience: Accompanied by a skilled sailor, opt for a private cruise directly underneath the arches of the castle. With no better view, you will be let in on the history of Loire Valley boat-
Into The Vineyard – www.IntoTheVineyard.com Email: [email protected] Toll Free: 1 855 848 3899 Suite 200 - 1807 Maritime Mews. Vancouver, Canada, V6H 3W7 5
making. Relax on this lovely float down the Cher on a traditional boat with picnic on board, or on the sandy shores if you prefer. Venturing to Montlouis for a tasting is possible, depending on availability and weather. Afterwards, you will be returned to the riverbank.
Rejoin your guide, who will bring you back to your hotel. Relax and reflect on the stimulating day.
Dinner at leisure and overnight at your accommodation.
Day 4 – Chambord & Cheverny After breakfast, meet with your private guide and set out for a day of exceptional visits and tastings. This morning, visit the castle of Chambord. The Estate of Chambord, a national game reserve as large as the town of Paris. The chateau de Chambord is a unique monument by its architecture and proportions. Leonardo da Vinci probably took part in the conception of the project. With more than 400 rooms and its double spiral staircase, Chambord is a highlight of the Loire Valley. Explore this Renaissance masterpiece, from its views of the Grand Canal to the wealth of its local flora and fauna.
Receive a private tour with a professional guide, including exploration of the impressive gardens and the castle itself.
Into The Vineyard – www.IntoTheVineyard.com Email: [email protected] Toll Free: 1 855 848 3899 Suite 200 - 1807 Maritime Mews. Vancouver, Canada, V6H 3W7 6
Next, we have arranged for you to visit a local artisan cheesemaker and take part in an interactive session discover various types of gourmet cheese, along with expertly-matched wine pairings included. Conclude the experience with a cheese-oriented lunch, a spread of artisan cheese and charcuterie, accompanied by salads and dessert. A large meal complete with a choice of wines.
This afternoon, continue to Domain Huard, a forerunner of bio dynamism in the Loire Valley. Winemakers at the Domaine des Huards since 1846, the Gendrier family has been leading the estate for fifteen years in organic and biodynamic agriculture. Located in Cour-Cheverny, discover their wines produced from the Cheverny and Cour-Cheverny controlled origin, as well as a new and unique variety, Romorantin. Be seduced by its unique qualities.
Later on, you will be welcomed at Domaine de Montcy for a multi-sensory visit. Tour the winery tasting their Cheverny and Cour-Cheverny wines. Visit the jam workshop where they make gourmet products on-site using peaches, apricots, strawberries, pears and more, all from French regions, preserving all of the scents and flavours of the fruits.
You will be returned to your hotel at the end of the day.
Day 5 – Sancerre & Pouilly-Fumé Your guide will retrieve you from your hotel this morning. Set out on the road to Sancerre. Stroll into the vines and receive a formal introduction to the influential terroir and come to understand the approach of the wine-growers in this area.
Our first appointment is with Domaine Reverdy- Ducroux to taste the wines of Sancerre.
Into The Vineyard – www.IntoTheVineyard.com Email: [email protected] Toll Free: 1 855 848 3899 Suite 200 - 1807 Maritime Mews. Vancouver, Canada, V6H 3W7 7
Afterwards, Domaine Thomas et fils will receive you for a private tour of the estate with the owner as he explains his passion for bio dynamic viticulture. Together, you will be guided through a tanks and barrels tasting of the newest vintage. Afterwards, sit down with the winemaker for a delicious lunch of traditional French cuisine at the wine estate. Tastings will be had throughout the meal.
For a change of pace, we will stop in at La Maison des Sancerre "museum", to further our education of the surrounding appellations, Sancerre particularities and the wine culture. Admire the town of Sancerre as well as feast your eyes on the 360° panorama at La Tour des Fiefs.
Conclude the day at Domaine Henri Bourgeois, one of most important producers in the area. A private visit of the impressive cellar will be offered, followed by a prestige tasting.
Your guide will bring you back to your hotel when your afternoon wraps up. Dinner at leisure and overnight at your accommodation.
Day 6 – Departure Today, check-out of your hotel and meet your chauffeur. You will be brought to the Saint Pierre des Corps train station to catch your coach departing the valley.
Bon Voyage!
Into The Vineyard – www.IntoTheVineyard.com Email: [email protected] Toll Free: 1 855 848 3899 Suite 200 - 1807 Maritime Mews. Vancouver, Canada, V6H 3W7 8
HOTEL OPTIONS
Les Hautes Roches - 4* ITV Preferred Hotel Facing the Loire, in an authentic environment, Didier and Christine Edon invite you to savour the many charms of a surprising estate. Rising up over the banks of the royal river just a few minutes from the centre of Tours, an 18th century manor house nestled against a cliff is lit up by the Loire Valley's gentle light. From the moment you arrive, the hotel personnel's welcome is as simple and warm as the surroundings. It is this unique atmosphere that transforms every moment of your stay into a remarkable experience. The troglodyte guest rooms are of authentic architecture, carved into rock, offering a comfortable and unique experience.
Into The Vineyard – www.IntoTheVineyard.com Email: [email protected] Toll Free: 1 855 848 3899 Suite 200 - 1807 Maritime Mews. Vancouver, Canada, V6H 3W7 9
Hotel au Charme Rabelaisien - 4* The boutique hotel au Charme Rabelaisien has everything to make your stay exclusive in the Loire valley. Comfortably situated in this XVIIIth century house, with the historic heart of Amboise only a few steps from the castle. The hotel boasts a warm, refined atmosphere, a lush green garden with pool. Boutique luxury that respects traditional architecture, and provides the perfect relaxing setting for your holiday in the valley.
Château Artigny - 4* A palatial mansion set in a 65-acre private estate with manicured gardens, Château d’Artigny is a majestic castle in the heart of the Loire Valley. Lavish architectural features, a superb new spa in the vaulted cellars, inventive cuisine and an impressive wine cellar are just some of the incentives for staying here. Every room at Château d’Artigny is a tribute to 18th-century splendour. Elegance and grandeur in a regal style is evident at every turn with sweeping staircases, trompe l’oeil frescoes, pillared bedrooms, opulent salons and enormous windows with stunning views of the River Indre, the French gardens, the chateau or the park.
Into The Vineyard – www.IntoTheVineyard.com Email: [email protected] Toll Free: 1 855 848 3899 Suite 200 - 1807 Maritime Mews. Vancouver, Canada, V6H 3W7 10
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
INCLUSIONS: • Arrival transfer from Saint Pierre des Corps or Tours train station to hotel Tours or Amboise • 5 nights accomodation in Tours or Amboise. Standard Room – Breakfast included • Full day of private touring in Chinon and Bourgueil • Meeting with a biodynamic winemaker – availability contingent • Cooking class lunch experience • Full day of private touring in Vouvray & Chenonceau • Short boat ride along the River Cher – Picnic lunch included • Full day of private touring in Chambord & Cheverny • Gastronomic Cheesemaster session in Blois –Lunch included • Visit to Chateau du Chambord • Full day of private touring in Sancerre & Pouilly-Fumé • Lunch at a domain with tastings included • Visit to La Maison des Sancerre • English speaking, knowledgable guide, with background in viticulture
EXCLUSIONS: • International and domestic airfare • Any entrance tickets not mentioned in the inclusions • All meals and beverages if not mentioned in the inclusions • Gratuity (at your discretion) • Train tickets • Travel Insurance • Items of a Personal Nature
Into The Vineyard – www.IntoTheVineyard.com Email: [email protected] Toll Free: 1 855 848 3899 Suite 200 - 1807 Maritime Mews. Vancouver, Canada, V6H 3W7 11
ITINERARY PRICING $3949 USD per person based on 2 people double occupancy
This price is valid until December 31 2017. A non-refundable deposit of 50% is required at time of booking Full payment due 90 days prior to travel and is non-refundable.
Unless otherwise specified, no insurance is included in the prices we offer. Into the Vineyard suggests that you purchase travel insurance, against the following risks. Personal Injury, trip Cancellation, trip interruption, repatriation and loss of luggage For a travel insurance quote, click HERE or on the image below.
No rooms or excursions have been held at the moment. Availability and price are guaranteed at time of booking.
Into the Vineyard reserves the right to adjust the trip price based on market currency fluctuations, any variation in the currency exchange between currency of payment and currency of country(s) of travel posted by the Federal Reserve of America that is in excess of 3% at time of final payment can be added to the cost of the trip at time of final payment. To guarantee the aforementioned quoted price you retain the option to pay the full amount at your discretion.
As far as possible, Into the Vineyard will satisfy amendment requests. If these requests concern an extension of the stay, an increased number of persons, or the purchase of additional services, these amendments will be charged in addition to the original price. For any other amendment, a fee per person will be charged.
Some international and in-country or regional airfares have advance purchase and ticketing requirements which will be communicated at time of reservation. Additional payment to cover the costs of the airline tickets will be
Into The Vineyard – www.IntoTheVineyard.com Email: [email protected] Toll Free: 1 855 848 3899 Suite 200 - 1807 Maritime Mews. Vancouver, Canada, V6H 3W7 12
requested in order to issue the tickets. Airline tickets carry penalties as per rules of the fare. Penalties are also imposed for any changes to the air reservations made after ticketing.
We reserve the right to request additional deposits if required by hotels and suppliers. This will be communicated at time of confirmation of booking.
Any complaint for non-fulfillment or poor fulfillment of the travel contract should be made on the spot, and referred either to the offending provider of service or to Into the Vineyard. The complaint must describe the grievance and be made within 24 hours.
If you have not obtained satisfaction, please send your complaint through registered mail, and join all written evidence within 15 days after the end of your trip. The length of our investigation will determine the delay in our response to your complaint.
Into the Vineyard shall not be held liable for any inconvenience due to Loss/theft of plane tickets at the customs or check-in, non-presentation, or presentation of documents (ID card, passport, visa, vaccination certificate, etc.) which have expired or have an insufficient period of validity or do not conform to the indications on the back. In case of a failed check-in, there will be no refund of the package fare.
Unexpected incidents due to a third party: wars, political upheavals, strikes external to Into The Vineyard, technical hitches external to Into The Vineyard, congestions on the roads or in the air space, hijacking, bankrupt of a service provider, bad weather, delays, engine failures, thefts of luggage or other goods. No refund of any kind will be made because of delays and itinerary changes due to the incidents mentioned above – e.g. change in the length of the tour initially planned or of a connection. Possible additional expenses (taxes, hotel, parking) will be payable by the customer.
Cancellations imposed by circumstances of the greatest importance and/or linked to the customer’s safety, and/or on the command of an enforcing authority. Into The Vineyard reserves the right to modify planned dates/times/itineraries if the customer’s safety cannot be ensured. The customer cannot claim any refund.
Services that will not be used (transfers and excursions) will not be refunded. Services that are voluntarily modified on the spot are subject to our service providers’ conditions: additional services that entail an extra cost will have to be paid directly by the customer and will not entail Into the Vineyard liability.
UNFORSEEN CIRCUMSTANCES Trip costs do not include items not specified in the itinerary. Although Into the Vineyard will make every effort to adhere to this itinerary, on rare occasions it may be necessary to make an adjustment to these
Into The Vineyard – www.IntoTheVineyard.com Email: [email protected] Toll Free: 1 855 848 3899 Suite 200 - 1807 Maritime Mews. Vancouver, Canada, V6H 3W7 13
arrangements. Should such adjustment be necessary, a substitute will be offered when and where possible. If war or terrorist activities threatened or actual, civil unrest, closures of airports or seaports, industrial action threatened or any other event outside the control of Into the Vineyard which causes either delays or extends the holiday or compels a change in the holiday arrangements.
Into the Vineyard reserves the right to substitute hotels or services of equal or greater quality Into the Vineyard cannot accept liability for any resulting loss, damage or expense and any refund will be subject to deduction of reasonable expenses.
ENTRY DOCUMENTS A valid Passport is required for your trip. A Visa may be required for your trip we recommend checking with the Consul General of the Country you intend to visit. Into the Vineyard is not responsible for assuring that people travelling on Into the Vineyard trips have the necessary entry documents.
We recommend you visit the site https://travel.state.gov/content/visas/en/visit.html to review updated requirements and information about the country you intend to visit.
Into The Vineyard – www.IntoTheVineyard.com Email: [email protected] Toll Free: 1 855 848 3899 Suite 200 - 1807 Maritime Mews. Vancouver, Canada, V6H 3W7 14