If you’re considering a full-day experience in France’s renowned wine region, the Chablis & Northern Burgundy Wine Tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, authentic wine tasting, and expert guidance. Priced at around $315 per person, this tour provides a comprehensive look at some of the area’s most celebrated vineyards, all within a well-organized 8-10 hour journey. With a maximum of just six travelers per group, it promises a level of intimacy that larger bus tours simply can’t match, allowing you to get closer to both the scenery and the stories behind the wines.
What I find particularly appealing about this experience are two things: first, the opportunity to visit organic and biodynamic vineyards, which not only introduces you to more sustainable practices but also yields some truly unique wines. Second, the knowledge and enthusiasm of the guides shine through — Nick, in particular, receives glowing praise for his detailed explanations and friendly approach. A potential downside? If you’re hoping for a very relaxed, flexible day, keep in mind that the schedule is quite structured, with specific stops and tasting times, which is typical but worth noting.
Key Points
- Small group size enriches the experience with more personalized attention.
- Multiple vineyard visits provide a broad understanding of Burgundy’s wine styles and production methods.
- Expert guides like Nick add extra value with their in-depth knowledge and friendly demeanor.
- Scenic views include a panoramic overlook of the Chablis Grand Cru vineyards.
- Taste a variety of wines, from crisp Chablis to complex Pinot Noir and organic Chablis.
- The cost includes all tastings, transportation, and detailed info, making it a transparent and good value experience.
An Introduction to the Tour
This privately guided wine tour is designed for those who want to go beyond just sipping wine at a restaurant or wine shop. Starting at 10:00 am, you’ll be picked up from your hotel within a 50 km radius of Chablis or from Auxerre train station — a convenient way to begin your day without the hassle of organizing transport. The price includes all the necessary logistics, such as a driver/guide, live commentary, and a detailed information package, making it a well-rounded experience for curious wine lovers.
The tour’s intimate size—no more than eight travelers—means you’ll get plenty of attention and have your questions answered. This personalized approach is one of the reasons reviews are consistently glowing, with many mentioning how much they learned from guides like Nick, who “brought us to some small and large vineyards with amazing wine and great people.”
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The Itinerary: Step-by-Step Breakdown
Stop 1: Domaine Jean-Louis Jean-Christophe Bersan
Your day kicks off in the 12th-century cellars of Domaine Jean-Louis Jean-Christophe Bersan. Here, you’ll taste a rare Burgundy white wine made from Sauvignon Blanc, which is quite distinctive because Burgundy is typically associated with Chardonnay. The chance to sample such a rare wine, along with other superb offerings, makes this stop memorable. The visit lasts about an hour, and with no admission fee, it’s an accessible introduction to Burgundy’s wine craft.
Stop 2: Domaine Louis Moreau
Next, you’ll head to Domaine Louis Moreau, where a guided tasting of signature Chablis wines awaits you. Expect to enjoy Premier and Grand Cru wines, which exemplify the best of the region. The comments from previous guests highlight how informative and engaging the tasting is — the estate’s wines are often praised for their “deliciousness,” and you’ll get a real sense of what makes Chablis special.
Optional Market Stop: Office de Tourisme du Pays Chablisien
On Sundays, a visit to the lively local market adds a slice of regional life, with colorful stalls and local produce. It’s a brief but vibrant peek into local life, offering a nice break from the wineries and a chance to soak up some regional atmosphere.
Stop 3: Domaine Jean-Marc Brocard
This stop emphasizes organic and biodynamic winemaking, with a chance to taste wines that are produced using sustainable practices. Many guests find this particularly fascinating, as it’s not just about tasting wine but understanding how various farming techniques influence flavor and quality. The one-hour visit allows plenty of time for questions and exploration.
Stop 4: Domaine du Clos du Roi
Your last winery visit provides insight into local wine-making traditions and regional history. The host shares stories about the region’s wine heritage and the evolution of its vineyards, making this stop both educational and tasting-rich.
Final Highlights: After exploring the vineyards and tasting a variety of wines—white, red, organic—you’ll enjoy a scenic trip to a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the Chablis Grand Cru vineyards, offering fantastic photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate the landscape.
What’s Included and What to Expect
The tour covers three tastings, with the opportunity to sample white wines like Sauvignon Blanc and complex reds such as Pinot Noir. The included information package with maps and tasting notes is a thoughtful addition, helping you remember what you’ve learned and tasted.
Transportation is by private vehicle, ensuring comfort and flexibility. Plus, you’ll have the chance to purchase wines directly from the wineries, with order forms and shipment details provided — a great way to bring a piece of Burgundy home.
Guides like Nick are praised for their wealth of knowledge and friendly approach, making the learning experience enjoyable for both seasoned wine lovers and curious newcomers. The tour works well in most weather conditions, and dressing in smart casual attire keeps you comfortable for the day.
Who Will Love This Tour?
Wine enthusiasts who want a personalized, behind-the-scenes look at Burgundy’s vineyards will find this tour especially rewarding. The small group setting allows for meaningful conversations, and the focus on organic and biodynamic wineries adds an authentic touch. It’s suited for travelers looking for an educational yet relaxed day with scenic views and high-quality tastings.
This experience is also perfect if you’re staying near Auxerre or planning a day trip from Paris — transport is arranged, and detailed train info will be sent if you’re arriving by train. Keep in mind that you’ll need moderate physical fitness for some walking around vineyards and a bit of standing during tastings.
Possible Considerations
While the tour offers excellent value for what’s included, remember that lunch is not included — you’ll need to budget roughly €25-30 for a meal, typically in a local bistro. If you prefer a more flexible or lighter day, be aware that the schedule is quite structured with specific winery visits, so it’s not a freeform wine tasting day. Also, if you’re traveling with young wine novices under 18, the minimum drinking age is 18.
Final Thoughts
This Chablis & Northern Burgundy Wine Tour provides a well-rounded, engaging exploration of one of France’s most prestigious wine regions. The combination of expert-guided tastings, scenic vineyard visits, and a behind-the-scenes look at organic winemaking makes it ideal for wine lovers and culturally curious travelers alike.
The attentiveness of guides like Nick, the intimate group setting, and the scenic views all combine to create a memorable experience that balances education with enjoyment. Though it costs a bit more than a quick tasting at a local shop, the access, insight, and personalized service justify the price for many.
If you’re craving an authentic, immersive day in Burgundy’s vines, this tour is a fine choice — especially if you value knowledgeable guides, scenic landscapes, and high-quality wines. It suits those who want to deepen their understanding of winemaking and enjoy a relaxed, insightful day out.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for someone who doesn’t drink wine?
Most of the focus is on tasting and learning about wine, so it might not be ideal if you’re not interested in alcohol. However, if you’re happy to observe and learn, there’s no obligation to taste everything.
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts roughly 8 to 10 hours, starting at 10:00 am and ending back at your pickup point or hotel.
What is included in the price?
The full experience covers transportation, three wine tastings, live commentary, an info package, and scenic view visits. Lunch and train tickets are not included.
Can I buy wine during the tour?
Yes, wineries provide order forms and shipment info if you want to purchase bottles to bring home.
Is transportation private?
Yes, you’ll be transported by private vehicle, which adds comfort and allows for a relaxed pace between stops.
What is the group size?
A maximum of 6 to 8 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.
Are there vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian options are available — just advise at the time of booking.
What should I wear?
Smart casual clothing is recommended. Since the tour operates in all weather, dress appropriately for outdoor vineyard visits.
To sum it up, if you’re looking for a tasteful, well-organized, and authentic introduction to Burgundy’s wines, this tour offers a balanced blend of scenery, knowledge, and delicious wine. It’s perfect for small groups who appreciate personal attention, quality tastings, and scenic vineyard vistas.