The small village of Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil, located about forty kilometers west of Tours, is a viticultural gem of the Touraine region. The Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil AOC, recognized since 1937, produces supple, fruity, and elegant red wines with delicious aromas of red fruits, primarily made from the Cabernet Franc grape variety.
A slight historical rivalry exists between Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil and its neighbor Bourgueil, dating back to the creation of Saint-Nicolas’ town center in 1834 and intensifying around wine production. However, this competition has largely subsided today, with the two appellations coexisting harmoniously.
Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil offers a rich wine tourism experience. The appellation’s terroir is characterized by three distinct levels: the pebbly islets of the Loire’s former riverbed, the sand and gravel terrace, and the tuffeau limestone hillside. Each of these terroirs gives the wines unique characteristics, ranging from light and fruity wines to more tannic and full-bodied ones.
Many wine estates open their doors to visitors, offering tastings and cellar tours. The troglodytic caves, typical of the region, provide ideal conditions for wine maturation. Some establishments also offer immersive experiences, combining vineyard tours, tastings, and sometimes even dining in the heart of the vineyard.
For a complete wine tourism experience, visitors can take the Loire Wine Route, which passes through Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil and allows discovery of other neighboring appellations. The vineyard landscapes, with their rows of vines stretching as far as the eye can see, also offer beautiful opportunities for walks and hikes.
Finally, the village itself is worth a visit with its church built in 1834 and its white tuffeau stone buildings, typical of the region. Local events, such as harvest festivals, add a cultural dimension to the wine tourism experience, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the wine tradition of this charming Loire Valley region.
To organize a wine tasting in Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Several dozen winemakers’ cellars await you. Many are directly accessible in the town center. Among the sure values, go for a tasting at Frédéric Mabileau or the Clos des Quarterons. Still near the village center, there are some other tasting options such as Domaine Olivier, Domaine de la Rodaie, and Clos du Vigneau.
