The Loire Valley

We left Brittany today and headed for the Loire Valley.

Our first stop was at Angers on the Maine River. It has a large walled chateau and is yet another ancient town.

It was then a drive along the Loire River, which is 1000kms long and divides France into the north and south regions.

It is known for its chateaus and wineries. We stopped for a look at Chateau de Saumur, which was quite magnificent.

Next stop was Chateau Ladubay, a winery that has been making sparkling wine since 1851. It is family owned and now in its 4th generation.

They produce 7 million bottles a year at their wineries, but this one only produces their magnums and large bottles. The grapes they use here are chenin blanc, cabernet franc and chardonnay.

The wines are stored in caves, which have been turned into cellars. They were quite interesting, as was their wine, which was pretty good.Read more