Tours is a fantastic base for wine lovers because it sits in the heart of the Loire Valley, one of France’s premier wine regions. Here, vineyards stretch across rolling hills, and the area’s rich wine-making traditions date back centuries. Whether you want an in-depth look at the process or just a relaxing tasting, Tours has options that fit every palate. We especially like the Morning Loire Valley Wine Tour & Food Pairing in Vouvray for its comprehensive approach, friendly guides, and delicious local cheeses, making it a perfect half-day experience.
For travelers wanting a more intimate, behind-the-scenes look, the Tour of a Vineyard, Winery & Cellar with Wine Tasting in Vouvray offers a smaller group setting with personalized attention. If you prefer a quick, historical taste of wine, the Caves Ambacia in Amboise combines centuries of wine history with a sensory journey through underground caves. Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each tour to help you decide which fits your plans best.
1. Morning – Loire Valley Wine Tour & Food Pairing, Vouvray
At number one, this half-day guided tour provides a rich experience exploring two renowned wine estates, perfect for first-timers or those who want a balanced mix of education and tasting. Starting at the Domaine Le Capitaine, you’ll visit a vineyard and underground cellar, with guided tastings of at least five sparkling and still white wines. The highlight here is the pairing with local cheeses, which elevates the tasting experience.
Next, the Cave de Vouvray introduces you to a wide range of Touraine wines, including some red varieties from the Loire Valley, accompanied by charcuteries like rillettes and rillons. The guide is a regional wine expert, making complex topics like terroir and vine work accessible. Guests consistently praise the guide’s knowledge and clarity — one reviewer called the guide “extremely knowledgeable” with “clear English.”
This tour runs for about 3.5 hours, priced at $145.36 per person, offering excellent value for a comprehensive introduction to Loire wines with insightful commentary and local food pairings. It’s ideal for those who want a relaxed yet educational experience in a beautiful setting.
Bottom Line: If you want a well-rounded tour with multiple tastings, engaging guides, and delicious local cheeses, this experience hits the mark.
2. Tour of a Vineyard, Winery & Cellar with Wine Tasting in Vouvray
Coming in at second, this small-group tour offers an intimate look at a family-run Vouvray vineyard. For just $62.70, you’ll spend around three hours exploring the vineyard, winery, and a rock-hewn cellar — a real treat for those interested in traditional wine-making methods.
The guide takes you behind the scenes with a guided walk through the vines, where you’ll learn about the soil, grape varieties, and the history of the estate. Visiting the cellar and tasting six Loire wines paired with local delicacies provides a deep dive into how the region’s wines are crafted. The small size — capped at just 12 people — allows plenty of personalized attention and questions.
Many past visitors highlight the guide’s passion and knowledge, with one noting, “Myriam explained the modern and old wine process in a way that was easy to understand.” The tour’s value lies in its focus on authenticity and educational depth, making it especially suitable for those who want to go beyond the surface of wine tasting.
Bottom Line: For an authentic, personalized experience with a focus on the production process and local food pairings, this tour offers excellent value and insight.
3. Caves Ambacia, Tour and Wine Tasting in Amboise
At number three, the Caves Ambacia provides a compact yet fascinating journey into the history of Loire wine, housed in caves carved out in the 16th century. For only $32.56 and a little over an hour, this is a great option for those seeking a shorter, educational experience.
The tour covers 150 years of wine history, with a sommelier leading a tasting of three exceptional wines. The caves themselves, once used as dwellings, add a sense of history and charm. Guests can enjoy a sensorial experience that stimulates all five senses, with the guide sharing insights into Loire wine traditions. If you wish, you can buy lunch at the on-site bistro or deli, making it a complete mini-escape.
Reviews emphasize the entertaining and knowledgeable guide, as well as the value of the tasting — one reviewer mentioned the “pairings with local cheese and meats” as particularly good. The focus here is more on historical context and sensory exploration than on extensive varietals, making it perfect for casual wine lovers or those short on time.
Bottom Line: For a quick but enriching taste of Loire wine history and culture, this tour offers excellent value and a memorable experience.
How to Choose Between These Tours
When deciding which wine experience in Tours suits you best, consider your budget, time, and interest level. The Morning Loire Valley Wine Tour & Food Pairing is great if you want a comprehensive, guided half-day with multiple tastings and food pairings. If you’re after a more personalized, behind-the-scenes look, the small-group vineyard tour provides in-depth insights into wine production, perfect for curious travelers who enjoy more interaction.
For those in a hurry or interested mainly in history and sensory experience, Caves Ambacia offers a compact, affordable taste of Loire wine and its storied past. Remember, booking early is wise, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re after an educational journey with food pairings, an intimate vineyard visit, or a short historical tasting, Tours offers a rich selection of wine tours to match your style. The Morning Loire Valley Wine Tour is ideal for a balanced introduction, while the small-group vineyard experience suits those who want an in-depth, personal look at wine-making. For a quick, fun taste of Loire wine history, the Caves Ambacia is an excellent choice.
No matter which you choose, remember that wine tours in Tours tend to fill up quickly — especially during the warmer months. Booking early guarantees you a spot, so plan ahead and enjoy a true taste of France’s most famous wine region. Cheers!