Picnic with the Independent Winemaker
Friendly weekend in the vineyards of Loir-et-Cher
About Picnic with the Winemaker
The Picnic with the Independent Winemaker is a national event organized each year at the beginning of June by the Independent Winemakers of France. In Loir-et-Cher, about ten wine estates open their doors for a long weekend to welcome the public in a relaxed and authentic atmosphere. Everyone brings their own picnic to share in the heart of the vineyards, under marquees or in the shade of trees, while the winemakers share their work, offer tastings, and organize original events around wine and terroir.
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Picnic with the Independent Winemaker: conviviality in the heart of the Loir-et-Cher vineyards
Each year at the beginning of June, the Independent Winemakers of France invite the public to share a unique moment on their estates during the Picnic with the Independent Winemaker. In Loir-et-Cher, this national operation takes on a special dimension thanks to the richness and diversity of the department's vineyards, which stretch along the Loire and Cher rivers.
A simple and generous concept
The principle is deliciously simple: each visitor brings their own picnic and comes to enjoy it at an independent winemaker's estate, in the heart of the vineyards, under marquees, in the cellars, or in the shade of ancient trees. The winemaker welcomes visitors, shows them around the estate, explains their work, and offers tastings of their wines. It's a moment of authentic sharing where bonds are forged between producers and consumers, far from traditional commercial channels.
Loir-et-Cher vineyards in the spotlight
The Loir-et-Cher department is home to remarkable wine terroirs, covering several prestigious appellations: Touraine, Touraine-Chenonceaux, Cheverny, Cour-Cheverny, Valençay, and Côteaux du Vendômois. During the picnic, about ten estates in the department open their doors, offering the public a panorama of this unique oenological diversity in the Loire Valley.
Activities for all tastes
Beyond tasting, each estate offers original activities: guided tours of the vineyards and cellars, oenological treasure hunts, wine escape games, food and wine pairing workshops, acoustic concerts, carriage or bike rides through the vineyards. These varied activities make the picnic a festive and family-friendly event, accessible to connoisseurs and novices alike.
Iconic participating estates
Among the estates in Loir-et-Cher that regularly participate: Domaine Sauvète in Monthou-sur-Cher, Vignoble Tévenot in Candé-sur-Beuvron, and Domaine des Pierrettes in Rilly-sur-Loire. Each offers its own atmosphere and activities, but all share the same passion for wine and hospitality.
Practical information — Picnic with the Winemaker
Practical Information — Picnic with the Independent Winemaker in Loir-et-Cher
Dates
Pentecost weekend, generally late May or early June (Saturday, Sunday, and Monday). Opening hours vary by estate: most welcome visitors from 11 am to 7 pm, but some open as early as 10 am or close at 6 pm. Check the specific hours for each estate on the official website or directly with the winemaker.
Event Principle
Each visitor brings their own picnic and enjoys it at an independent winemaker's estate, in the vineyards, under marquees, in the cellars, or in the shade of trees. The winemaker offers hospitality, a guided tour of the estate and its winemaking facilities, as well as a tasting of their wines. It's a moment of authentic and friendly sharing between producers and wine lovers.
Prices
- Admission: free at all participating estates
- Tastings: free and without obligation to purchase
- Cellar and vineyard tours: free
- Certain special activities (escape games, food and wine pairing workshops): may be subject to a fee depending on the estate
List of participating estates in Loir-et-Cher
The complete list of Loir-et-Cher estates participating in the event is published each year in March on the website piqueniquechezlevigneron.com. An interactive map allows you to locate the estates, their activities, and their hours. In Loir-et-Cher, participating estates cover the Touraine, Cheverny, Cour-Cheverny, Valençay, and Côteaux du Vendômois appellations.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
- Bring your complete picnic: food, tablecloth, cutlery, plates, glasses, and folding chairs
- Some estates offer local cheese and charcuterie platters as a supplement
- Check the opening hours of each estate before traveling
- Be sure to designate a driver or arrange accommodation nearby
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water in case of hot weather
- Pets are generally allowed on a leash in outdoor areas
Contact
Vignerons Indépendants de France
National website: www.piqueniquechezlevigneron.com
Federation of Independent Winemakers of Loir-et-Cher
Blois-Chambord Tourist Office: www.bloischambord.com
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Where does it take place — Picnic with the Winemaker
Domaines viticoles du Loir-et-Cher
Domaines viticoles du Loir-et-Cher, 41000 Blois