Chinon is one of the most charming spots in the Loire Valley for wine lovers. Its historic vineyards, family-run wineries, and scenic countryside make it a perfect setting for exploring France’s renowned wines. If you’re visiting Chinon, you’ll find plenty of options to taste exceptional Cabernet Francs, Chenin Blancs, and other regional favorites. We especially love experiences like the Picnic in the Vines for its intimate setting and breathtaking views. Nothing beats sipping wine overlooking the rolling vineyards with a gourmet picnic. For a deeper dive into the region, a full-day private tour offers multiple vineyard visits, guided tastings, and a comprehensive look at Loire wines.
All these tours highlight different aspects of Chinon’s wine culture—from quick tastings to immersive visits—so whether you’re short on time or after a full experience, there’s something for all.
1. Picnic in the Vines – A Unique Loire Wine Experience
At number 1 on our list, the Picnic in the Vines offers a charming blend of wine, scenery, and cuisine. For around $88.83 per person, you get a 2.5-hour experience that combines a guided tour and tasting at Château du Petit Thouars with a personalized picnic lunch overlooking the vineyards. The highlight is choosing your favorite bottle of Loire wine to accompany your meal, making it an intimate and relaxed way to enjoy the landscape. The guide shares fascinating insights about Loire Valley wines and the estate’s history, making it more than just a tasting. The picnic options include vegetarian choices, appealing to dietary preferences.
What makes this tour stand out is its romantic vibe—perfect for couples or anyone craving a gentle, scenic experience paired with excellent wine. Reviewers praise its peaceful setting, personalized attention, and the chance to learn about family wineries in a tranquil environment. It’s ideal if you want a relaxed, memorable afternoon without crowds.
Bottom Line: A lovely choice for those seeking a romantic, educational, and scenic wine experience with a gourmet picnic.
2. English Speaking Loire Winery Tours originating from Chinon
For those who want a comprehensive day of wine tasting, this English-speaking Loire Winery Tour is hard to beat. It ranges from about 3 to 7 hours and visits vineyards in Bourgueil, Chinon, and Saumur, guided by an expert who explains the region’s terroir, grape varieties, and winemaking techniques. The tour emphasizes small-group intimacy and covers 10+ wines, including tastings at several well-chosen wineries. It often includes a traditional French picnic lunch, making it a full day of tasting, sightseeing, and learning.
Guests rave about the personalized service and the opportunity to meet winemakers directly, which adds depth to the experience. The tour is tailored for wine enthusiasts eager to understand the regional differences and sample a wide variety of Loire wines. The ability to purchase and ship wine home is a big plus, avoiding the hassle of luggage restrictions.
Bottom Line: Perfect for serious wine fans who want a broad and detailed exploration of the Loire’s best vineyards in one day, with knowledgeable guides.
3. Chinon : Discovery Tours and Wine Tasting
If your budget is tight but you still want a taste of Chinon’s distinctive wines, the Discovery Tour and Wine Tasting is an excellent choice. For just $19, this 1.5-hour tour takes you through a family-run vineyard that practices sustainable agriculture (HVE). The highlight is a commented tasting of 6 Chinon AOP wines, including a single varietal Cabernet Franc, paired with local delicacies.
This tour is perfect if you’re short on time or traveling on a budget but still wish to understand what makes Chinon wines special—namely their tradition blended with modern techniques. Visitors appreciate the personal insights into the winery’s practices and the chance to taste a range of wines in a single sitting. The small group setting makes for an engaging, relaxed atmosphere.
Bottom Line: An affordable, informative introduction to Chinon wines, especially suitable for those new to wine tasting or with limited time.
4. Epicurean Discovery Tour with Wine & Local Specialties
For a short but flavor-packed experience, the Epicurean Discovery Tour is ideal. At only about $54.75, it lasts around 75 minutes and combines a visit to Château du Petit Thouars with sampling local specialties and wines like Cabernet Franc and Chenin Blanc. It’s perfect for food lovers who want to get a taste of both gastronomy and winemaking in a relaxed setting. The tour includes a visit to troglodyte caves and offers insights into the chateau’s history.
Reviewers mention Sebastian’s engaging style and the delicious pairings, which combine local flavors with regional wines. It’s best suited for travelers with limited time or those who want a more intimate, food-focused experience without sacrificing quality.
Bottom Line: A quick, tasty introduction to Chinon’s culinary and wine culture, perfect for those with a packed schedule but a love for local flavors.
5. Castle Epicurean Experience with Wine & Local Specialties
If you’re after a more luxurious experience, the Castle Epicurean Experience offers a 2-hour journey into the elegance of Château du Petit Thouars. It combines a vineyard and cellar tour with a tasting of high-quality wines, paired with artisanal local dishes. Held inside the castle’s refined dining room, this experience provides a refined look at the region’s winemaking traditions alongside tasting expertly curated wines.
Guests love the chance to explore the stunning castle grounds and enjoy a relaxed, intimate setting. It’s well suited for celebrating special occasions or for travelers who want a more polished experience. The reviews mention the delicious pairing and the beautiful setting, though it’s pricier at around $115.54.
Bottom Line: A great choice for those seeking a refined, castle-based wine experience with excellent food pairings.
6. Loire Valley Tour & Wine Tasting Vouvray, Chinon, Bourgueil
For the full regional experience, this full-day private tour covers Vouvray, Chinon, and Bourgueil with guided visits and tastings in each area. It’s priced at about $1,087 per group, making it ideal for families or small groups who want a comprehensive exploration of Loire wines. The itinerary includes scenic drives, visits to historic towns, and tastings of the best wines from each appellation, including Vouvray’s famed white wines and Chinon’s signature reds.
Guests appreciate the personalized approach and the opportunity to see multiple regions in one day. It’s perfect if you’re looking for an all-in-one experience that combines sightseeing with wine tasting.
Bottom Line: For those wanting a detailed, personalized tour that covers the broad spectrum of Loire wines, this is a top choice—best suited for dedicated wine travelers.
$1,087 per group up to 1
How to Choose the Best Chinon Wine Tour
When selecting your ideal Chinon wine experience, consider your budget, interests, and schedule. If you prefer a relaxed, romantic setting, the Picnic in the Vines offers an intimate taste of the countryside. For a deep dive into regional wines, the full-day Loire Valley tour provides a detailed exploration of multiple vineyards. If you’re short on time or budget, the Discovery Tour (budget-friendly) offers a quick introduction, while the Castle Epicurean Experience (luxury) suits those looking for a more refined outing.
Booking early is advisable, especially for popular tours, and try to match the tour to your interest level—whether that’s casual tasting or a detailed regional exploration. Most tours operate from spring to fall, when the vineyards are lush and the weather is pleasant, making it the best time to visit.
Chinon provides a wonderful variety of wine tours suited for different tastes and schedules. Whether you want a romantic picnic, an educational deep dive, or a full-day adventure, you’ll find an experience that suits you perfectly. Now’s the time to book early and enjoy the rich flavors and stunning scenery of this remarkable wine region.