Tagged with "le tasting room"

It looks like we’re going to have some great 2014 wines if those of Domaine Patrick Baudouin in Anjou are anything to go by.

We’ve teamed up with Franck and Sandra to offer our Loire Wine Indulgence – a mini break that comprises 2 nights accommodation at the Auberge and a full day’s wine tour with us. Cathy takes care of all the arrangements on your behalf so you can relax and enjoy a little peace and quiet in the countryside accompanied by some great wines and wonderful food.

Feeling rather christmassy after a lovely morning spent at Les Peupliers, a lovely bed and breakfast near Saumur run by Tracey and Mike Wilke. Mike is a chef and runs cookery courses from their charming property near Saumur.

A few pics and wines of note from the recent Anges Vins tasting held in St Aubin de Luigné in the heart of the Layon valley.

After the 40mm of rain that fell on Monday I thought that would be it for those hanging on in there for a final pass through the vineyard.

Chateau Soucherie – one of the nicest spots you’ll find in the Loire. Stunning views over the Layon valley.

I’ve been playing around with vegan recipes a bit over the past few weeks and this recipe (in a slightly different form), was given to me by English friends Nettie and David. I’ve fiddled around with it a bit and made a few changes including the addition of cumin. It makes a lovely lunch served with baby new potatoes and some slow roasted tomatoes.

Whether you’re in the Loire on holiday, staying in Paris, with family and friends or business colleagues – a day in the beautiful Loire countryside is always good for the soul.

The vineyards of St Nicolas are more often than not seen as a lighter option than Bougueil. In fact the truth of the matter is that the vineyards of both these appellations cross over at the limits so one can find vineyards within the Bourgueil appellation close to the river on the sandy soils and likewise, one can find vineyards in the St Nicolas de Bougueil appellation higher up on the slopes where there is more clay in the soil and therefore more structure in the wines.

Nigel made this starter last night which was light and tasty and full of flavour. You will need (for 2 people):

My advice would be to do just one chateau a day – that way you can arrive in good time, relax and enjoy your visit in the knowledge you are not going to be herded around like cattle, go and find a nice spot for lunch, take your time over a delicious meal and then potter during the afternoon away from the crush.

It was such a beautiful morning that I popped down to the river early this morning to walk Sybil . Le Thoureil is one of the prettiest villages perched on the river Loire half way between Angers and Saumur and just a 15 minute walk from our home.