The Loire Valley wineries have been nothing short of spectacular. We have visited 6 of 1,536 in the region. The Loire comprises six large regions (eg: one would be like the Hunter) and mainly specialises in Muscadet and Chinon (white) and Gamay and Cabernet Franc (red). The best way to describe our wine tasting experience is "up close and personal". We are so surprised. The locals take us into their cellars and vineyard and describe to us in detail their operations with pride and passion. The lady in the photo is called Marianette, 62 and grows wine!!! She took us into her vineyard and showed us her grapes (watch out for the movie!!!). Another couple called out their daughter to translate and poured tastings directly from their stainless steel vats. They also took us underground to show us their crushing machine, 70,000 bottles under method champagnioise and the bottling line. These are NOT tours - they did this on-the-spot. The French have been warm and friendly - we get the impression that they appreciate our efforts to speak a few French words. We have been staying in small wine towns along the way complete with Chateauxs, day markets (where we buy our baguettes, fromage) and old French men sporting oval caps with buttons on top. Tres Formidable!!!
Dont fool yourself, the daughter came out to save her mother from you both.
ReplyDeleteJohn Golfin has died and gone to Heaven. Paul, how will you ever convince him to leave the Wine Wonderland.
ReplyDeletePS It does look beautiful!