This weekend, in the heart of the Loire Valley, the vineyards of Nantes play host to Les Muscadétours, now in its third year, which returns for another three days of viticulture fun, heritage, and gastronomy. Whether you are a newcomer to French food and wine, a keen enthusiast, or a seasoned connoisseur, there is something for everyone.
In addition to all the merrymaking, there’s a more serious aspect to the wine festival, which will be held across the winemaking communities of Nantes, including Nantais, Vertou, and Lower Goulaine. The celebration is geared toward raising awareness of the history and heritage of winemaking in Nantes, to increasing wine tourism in the area, and the development of new vineyards in the terroir.
The events for this year’s festival are centered around four main themes; exploration, heritage, culture, and the culinary experience. In keeping with these, the organizers will be offering walks around the vineyards, wineries, and cellars, heritage tours – including trips to the local castle, a visit to the Nantais Vineyard Museum, shows featuring musicians, cooking workshops, wine-related art, a farmers market, and of course, the chance to sample the local food and wine. In addition, there will be plenty of opportunities to meet and talk to local wine growers and producers, and chefs.
Les Muscadétours runs from October 3-5. To find out more, please visit the Muscadétours website or their Facebook page.