Passionate winemaker, Jean-Max Manceau offers several escapades in the vineyard of Chinon at the Domaine, on foot or by “gabare” boat on the Vienne to discover the wines of the Loire Valley and the gastronomy of Touraine

Winemaker from father to son, Jean-Max Manceau has been working on the Domaine de Noiré since 2001, in the heart of the Chinon AOC. Committed to the Vignobles & Découvertes approach, his 18-hectare estate is managed using organic and biodynamic methods. The wines, made from the Cabernet Franc grape variety, are highly expressive with aromas of red and black fruits. "I have a passion for the vine and its history. I like to talk about my job, to praise my vineyard. That's why my wife and I offer a real wine tourism service", says the winemaker, whose estate has been awarded the label "Cave touristique d'Excellence" for the quality of its welcome.

Tasting visit with meal in a troglodytic cellar, hike, and boat on the Vienne River.

The discovery of the vineyards, the landscapes and the historical city of Chinon can be done through a visit-tasting at the domain with a meal in a troglodytic cellar, in a boat on the Vienne River or during a hike. The meal is prepared by Christophe Duguin, restaurateur in Chinon, while the boatman Julien Ayrault ensures the trips in the boat on the Vienne. Also, on the program are walking tours to the impressive royal fortress of Chinon and aperitif-concerts that take place on three Friday evenings during the summer at the estate to combine wine and music. "The vineyard always has a history, a traceability. Wine tourists want to understand all these aspects and not taste a wine identical to that of the neighbors," says Jean-Max Manceau. The experience ends in the cellar with a tasting of the best vintages, with evocative names: Soif de Tendresse, Elégance or Caractère. The signature of a grand cru winemaker!