Saumur En Fete

Enjoy the food and wines of this historic Loire Valley town during the ten-day Festivini celebrations, says Sophie Gardner-Roberts

- Sophie Gardner-Roberts

As one of the most important wine-producing countries in the world, France has countless fêtes and institutions celebrating le vin, from traditional grape harvest festivals and quirky cork museums to the swanky new Cité du Vin in Bordeaux. The country has 16 appellations referring to the ‘grands vignobles’ – Bourgogne, Loire, Bordeaux, Rhône etc – and more than 300 AOCs (Appellations d’Origine Contrôlée).

The Loire Valley’s main claim to fame may be the regal châteaux that cling majestically to the shores of the mighty river, but if you are visiting Saumur or nearby towns in September, be sure not to miss Festivini. This annual gathering celebrates the Vins de Saumur, produced to the east of the historical region of Anjou in an area stretching from the town itself to Gennes, Montsoreau and Montreuil-Bellay.

In this region, vines are cultivated over 3,000 hectares in a soil rich in white tuffeau stone, which was used to build some of the châteaux. The two main grape varieties are chenin blanc, perfect for bubbly, dry whites and, when the grapes are left to rot, Coteaux de Saumur sweet wines; and, for the reds, cabernet franc, which is said to have been cultivated in the area since the 11th century.

Festivini organises many activities in and around Saumur that pay tribute to the wines and the producers. From 2-10 September, you can explore the area, take part in wine tastings and learn all there is to know about the seven AOCs produced here. The celebrations culminate in a huge party in the grounds of the Abbaye Royale de Fontevraud; the idea being that you will have gathered the knowledge during the week to enjoy the wines in a fun and relaxed atmosphere while tucking into delicious food. Sounds good? Let me take you on a tour.

Going ‘inland’