The wine village of Azay-le-Rideau (37 Indre-et-Loire, Centre/Val de Loire) is known throughout the world for its Renaissace era Chateau.Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the chateau is witness to monumental restoration, where stonemasons, carpenters and roofers combine their talents to restore this jewel of the Loire Valley to its full glory. Yet it is also home to a local wine under the appellation Touraine Azay–le-Rideau.
The balance of production here is split primarily between lively rosés of Grolleau and bright, Chenin Blanc-based white wine. Only a small proportion of the local wine is classed as AOC Touraine Azay-le-Rideau, the remainder being labelled as Touraine for red, white and rosé wines. Yet the white Touraine Azay-le-Rideau is a rich aromatic white well worth seeking out.
The Chateau is on the end of an island on the River Indre, and this is a peaceful and tranquil area, ideal for exploring Loire Valley Chateaux and wine!
One of the major producers of wine in this area is Couly-Dutheil, who have a special wine tasting shop for the medal-winning wines of Couly-Dutheil situated just outside the Chateau of Azay-le-Rideau at 22 rue Balzac
At Azay-le-Rideau you could stay in:
- self-catering cottages in the grounds of a small Chateau at Domaine Le Plessis Gallu
- Or stay in a pleasant Logis de France hotel at the Logis Hôtel des Châteaux
- Or stay in an historic Manor House B&B at Manoir de la Touche
Other accommodation options in Azay-le-Rideau
airport: Nantes Atlantique NTE 130 miles /211 km
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