Nestled just north of the majestic Loire River in the esteemed Bourgueil appellation, Chateau de Miniere boasts a rich history dating back to the 15th century. Today, this captivating winery seamlessly blends tradition with modernity, featuring a bright, contemporary tasting room and charming guestrooms for unforgettable overnight stays.

Unveiling Chateau de Miniere: A Blend of History and Viticulture

Immerse yourself in the enchanting ambiance of Chateau de Miniere, a meticulously restored castle that houses a wine-tasting room and guesthouse. Surrounded by picturesque gardens and the rolling landscapes of the Loire Valley, this estate offers an idyllic escape.

Spanning over 70 acres within the Bourgueil AOC, the estate’s vineyards benefit from the region’s unique terroir. Here, Cabernet Franc reigns supreme, lending its character to both red and rosé wines. Additionally, Chenin Blanc, locally known as Chenin, thrives, producing exceptional still and sparkling white wines. Chateau de Miniere showcases the best of these varietals, presenting a diverse range of wines for every palate.

The estate’s enduring legacy is evident in its vines, some of which are over a century old. These ancient vines, combined with the property’s diverse soil types, contribute to the distinct growing conditions that yield a remarkable variety of wine styles. From light, refreshing reds to full-bodied expressions and crisp, acidic whites, Chateau de Miniere offers a wine for every occasion.

Committed to sustainable practices, Chateau de Miniere obtained Organic Agriculture Ecocert certification in 2010 and is also HVE certified (High Environmental Value). These certifications reflect the estate’s dedication to environmentally responsible viticulture.

Indulge in a Wine Tasting at Chateau de Miniere: A Sensory Adventure

Embark on a captivating wine-tasting journey at Chateau de Miniere, where a variety of wine tasting options await. From guided tastings to insightful tours, the winery caters to diverse preferences. Elevate your experience with wine and chocolate pairings or indulge in a delightful picnic basket amidst the scenic vineyards.

During our visit, we opted for the guided wine tasting, a remarkable value at €10 (approximately $10) per person. This comprehensive tasting included samples of nine exceptional wines, encompassing reds, whites, and sparkling selections. Allow us to share a few of our personal favorites:

Ceci n’est pas un blanc: A White Wine Imposter

Our tasting commenced with the intriguing 2023 “Ceci n’est pas un blanc,” a playful expression meaning “this is not a white.” This unique wine is crafted from Cabernet Franc grapes, meticulously fermented without skin contact to prevent color extraction. Subsequently, it undergoes a six-month aging process in stainless steel.

The resulting wine is a refreshing and approachable delight, characterized by vibrant citrus aromas and a pronounced acidity.

Blanc de Miniere: A Chenin Blanc Masterpiece

The 2023 Blanc de Miniere is a testament to the versatility of 100% Chenin Blanc. Renowned for its vibrant acidity, this grape imparts a lively character to the wine. The prominent lemon notes are beautifully balanced by richer flavors of nectarine and peach, complemented by subtle vegetal hints. This crisp, dry white wine is the perfect accompaniment to warm summer days.

Rosé de Miniere: A Symphony of Strawberry and Florals

Crafted entirely from Cabernet Franc, the Rosé de Miniere is a captivating salmon-colored rosé that exudes vibrancy and charm. This delightful wine is a blend of vines, showcasing aromas of ripe strawberry and delicate floral notes. The 2022 vintage we sampled possessed a noticeable acidity, lending the wine a pleasant zestiness.

Bulles de Miniere Blanc de Noirs: A Sparkling Celebration

“Bulles,” French for bubbles, perfectly encapsulates this exceptional sparkling wine. If you appreciate exceptionally dry sparkling wines, the Bulles de Miniere Blanc de Noirs will undoubtedly impress. This 2020 brut nature wine boasts pronounced citrus aromas, harmoniously balanced by toasty, yeasty flavors acquired during 12 months of lees aging. The delicate bubbles and bright, fresh finish make this wine incredibly easy to enjoy.

Sweet Wines: A Taste of Chateau de Suronde

Extend your tasting experience with a selection of exquisite sweet wines from Chateau de Miniere’s sister winery, Chateau de Suronde, located approximately an hour to the west near the charming Loire Valley city of Chaume.

We savored the 2022 L’Allegorie, a 100% Chenin Blanc crafted from vines aged at least 30 years. The grapes are intentionally affected by noble rot, causing them to shrivel and concentrate their sugars. This process results in a rich, sweet wine, characterized by warm honey and candied fruit flavors in the case of L’Allegorie. Pair this exceptional wine with tart desserts, creamy cheeses, or spicy dishes to create a harmonious and balanced culinary experience.

Affordable Luxury: The Cost of Wine Tasting

One of the most appealing aspects of wine tasting in France is the remarkable affordability of the wines themselves.

Almost all of the wines we tasted were priced under €20, or approximately $25 dollars, when purchased on-site. If you plan to visit, we highly recommend bringing a few wine bottle travel pouches to protect your purchases during travel. Alternatively, consider investing in a dedicated wine suitcase for secure transport.

While some of these exceptional wines are available in the U.S., be prepared for potentially significant import surcharges.

Extend Your Stay: Accommodations at Chateau de Miniere

To fully immerse yourself in the Loire Valley experience, consider staying at the Chateau. The property offers three charming cottages, all nestled within the renovated castle, conveniently located next to the winery’s tasting room. For larger groups, consider renting a separate chateau that can comfortably accommodate over 15 people.

For a truly unforgettable experience, consider reserving all of the properties to host private events.

Prices for the smaller cottages begin at approximately €140 per night, while renting the Chateau starts at over €3,000 for mid-week stays.

Plan Your Visit: Chateau de Miniere Awaits

Address
23 rue de Minière
37140 Ingrandes de Touraine
France

Hours
Monday-Saturday: 10 AM – 6 PM

Tasting experiences

• Guided wine tasting: €10/person.
• Guided wine tasting and tour: €15/person.
• Wine, charcuterie and cheese tasting: €20/per person.
• Guided wine and chocolate tasting: €18/per person.
• Picnic basket: €36/per person.

Book a reservation at Chateau de Miniere and embark on an unforgettable wine-tasting adventure in the Loire Valley.