Le Haut des Lys is ideally situated for exploring some of Touraine’s finest vineyards, nestled between the Loire, Cher and Vienne rivers! Here is a selection of appellations and typical wine-tasting experiences to enjoy around Villandry, whether you’re a fan of fruity reds, dry whites or festive sparkling wines! To be enjoyed in moderation, of course.
The major appellations around Villandry
- Touraine Azay-le-Rideau (AOC), 10 mins from Villandry
White (mainly Chenin) and rosé wines, light and fruity.
Vineyards around Azay-le-Rideau, Cheillé and Saché.
👉 Estate to visit:
Domaine Nicolas Paget (Rigny-Ussé)
→ Organic wines, a warm welcome, original vintages. Tasting in a cave-dwelling wine cellar.
- Chinon (AOC), 30 mins south of Villandry
Red wines made from Cabernet Franc, powerful or fruity depending on the terroir.
A few whites and rosés too.
👉 Estates to discover:
Domaine Charles Joguet (Sazilly); a benchmark for Chinon, with a superb guided tasting.
Domaine de la Noblaie (Ligré); organic farming, refined and elegant wines.
- Bourgueil & Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil (AOC), 30–40 mins west
100% Cabernet Franc, producing supple or full-bodied reds depending on the soil.
Saint-Nicolas is fruitier, whilst Bourgueil is more structured.
👉 Recommended producers:
Cave des Vins de Bourgueil (co-operative); ideal for an introduction to the region.
Domaine Yannick Amirault (excellent value for money)
- Montlouis-sur-Loire & Vouvray (AOC), 35–45 mins east
White wines made from Chenin: dry, off-dry, sweet and sparkling.
Ideal for lovers of sparkling wines and wines with ageing potential.
👉 Must-try:
Domaine de la Taille aux Loups (Montlouis); a leading Loire estate with sublime vintages.
Maison Monmousseau (Montrichard); tour of cellars carved into the tuffeau limestone, complete with lighting effects.
Maison Bourillon Dorléans (Rochecorbon); tour of a cellar sculpted by artists from tuffeau limestone, featuring artistic lighting.
Wine-tasting experiences around Villandry
- Walks through the vineyards:
Signposted walks around Azay-le-Rideau, Cheillé or Saint-Benoît-la-Forêt.
The ‘In the Footsteps of Balzac’ trail around Saché winds through lovely vineyard plots.
- Cycling through the vineyards:
The ‘Loire à Vélo’ cycle route passes through the vineyards of Montlouis, Bourgueil, Chinon…
Bikes can be hired in Villandry and at the hotel.
- Wine tastings and picnics at the estates:
Many estates offer tastings on their terraces or picnic hampers (booking recommended).
