The vines serve as a link between the house, Rabelais’ work and the landscape which inspired the novel Gargantua.

Planted in 2004, the two varieties of grape, Chenin Blanc and Cabernet Franc, produce a wine called Clos de la Devinière available to buy on-site. La Devinière vineyards have been part of the AOC Chinon designation since 2016. Tasting tours (for groups, booking required) keeps the sensory experience alive with a blend of Rabelais and wine.

A panorama dotted with sites that bring the novel to mind unfurls before you from the vineyard: Château du Coudray-Montpensier, Gargantua’s reward for Gymnast; Seuilly Abbey defended by Brother Jean des Entommeures, the giant’s fellow soldier.

Feast your eyes on the landscape from the viewfinder table on this little spur.