Terroir and Crafts

Touraine is a land of crafts, local know-how and products.

A local speciality is the Poire Tapée – or pressed pears. This technique of fruit preservation dates back to the Renaissance period. During the 19th century, the Poires Tapées were produced in Rivarennes, close to Azay-le-Rideau, and exported to European countries. Due to pasteurisation and refrigeration, the production stopped during the first half of the 20th century. Some passionate people are producing it again.

You will savour the Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine, smooth or dry, along with Loire Valley wine.

Crafts are also remarkable, in particular basketry. The village of Villaines-les-Rochers, a few kilometers away from Azay-le-Rideau, is entirely dedicated to this art. Wicker doesn’t have secrets for basket makers, braiders of living material.

To discover:

Poire tapée Reines de Touraine, Rivarennes, tel : 02 47 95 47 46

Coopérative Vannerie de Villaines, Villaines-les-Rochers, tel : 02 47 45 43 03