Wine and chocolat tasting at Chablis.

A Tasty Journey Through Chablis: Wine and Chocolate Tasting at Domaine Clotilde Davenne

If you’re exploring the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region’s renowned wine country, a wine and chocolate tasting at Chablis offers a delightful escape into the world of fine flavors. This 45-minute experience, hosted at the charming Boutique Clotilde Davenne, pairs local wines such as Chablis and Grand Auxerrois with carefully curated chocolates, making it a perfect choice for those craving a sophisticated yet accessible indulgence. I’ve come across reviews that praise the excellent wine selection and the engaging guides, making it clear this is a memorable stop for any wine enthusiast.

What I particularly like about this tasting is its balance of education and enjoyment. The intimate setting, limited to small groups of just six participants, ensures you get personal attention and a relaxed atmosphere. Plus, at only $23 per person, it offers a surprisingly good value for such a gourmet experience. One detail that caught my eye is the praise for the “super” host, Rasmus, and the overall consistent rating of 4.8 out of 5, which speaks to the quality and consistency of the experience.

A possible consideration? If you’re expecting a long, in-depth tour of the vineyards or a large-scale tasting, this might not be it. Instead, you get a focused, sensory-rich session that’s perfect for a quick afternoon treat or a precursor to a more extensive exploration of the region. This experience seems ideal for those who enjoy small, authentic local encounters rather than large tourist crowds.

Key Points and Takeaways

• Authentic Small-Group Setting: Limited to six participants, ensuring personalized attention and a cozy atmosphere.
• Expertly Curated Pairings: Wines like Chablis and Grand Auxerrois are paired with chocolates crafted by the estate, enhancing flavor appreciation.
• Flexible Booking and Accessibility: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance—perfect for flexible travel plans.
• Enlightening Guides: Guides are fluent in both French and English, making it accessible to international visitors.
• Excellent Value for Price: At $23, this tasting offers a gourmet experience at an affordable rate.
• Highly Rated Experience: Consistently praised with a 4.8/5 rating based on four reviews, including comments like “Værtinden var super” and “Excellent.”

Entering the World of Chablis and Chocolate

Your experience begins at the quaint Boutique Clotilde Davenne, situated amidst the lush landscapes of Chablis. This boutique is not just a shop but an inviting space where the wine-making story and local craftsmanship come alive. As soon as you step in, the ambiance hints at the sophistication and authenticity that define this experience.

The tasting itself lasts about 45 minutes, a perfect window to indulge without feeling rushed. The guide will lead you through a selection of wines from the Irancy, Côtes d’Auxerre, and Crémant de Bourgogne regions—each offering a different expression of Burgundy’s viticultural bounty. Expect to learn about the specific characteristics of Chablis, known for its crispness and minerality, and Grand Auxerrois, which often offers a richer profile.

The pairing with chocolates is where the fun truly begins. Each sip is complemented by a carefully chosen chocolate, designed to accentuate the wine’s unique qualities. The experience is described as “gourmet and surprising,” with each combination revealing new layers of flavor—a true testament to the estate’s craftsmanship.

What Makes This Experience Stand Out

The quality of the wine selection is a recurring highlight, with many reviewers praising the “excellent” choices. You’ll appreciate the clear explanations of each wine’s origin and flavor profile, which helps you understand what makes Burgundy wines so special. One reviewer, Cédric, called it simply “Excellent,” which underscores the high standards maintained.

The personal touch of the guides is another asset. Rasmus, one of the reviewers, mentioned the host was “super,” and the small group size allows for interaction and tailored recommendations. Expect a friendly, knowledgeable host who makes the experience both educational and fun.

Many visitors also appreciate that the tasting fits comfortably into a half-hour slot, making it a convenient addition to a day exploring Chablis or the broader Burgundy region. The price point of $23 is quite reasonable considering the quality of wines and chocolates offered—this isn’t just a tasting but a small gourmet event.

The Detailed Itinerary

Your journey begins at the Boutique Clotilde Davenne, a cozy, well-curated space where you’re welcomed into the estate’s story. After a brief introduction to the estate’s philosophy and the region’s unique terroirs, the guide leading the tasting will direct you to the tasting session.

The core of the experience is the sampling of several wines, including Chablis—famous for its clean, mineral-driven profile—and Grand Auxerrois, offering a slightly different taste from Burgundy’s famed Chardonnay. The wines are chosen to showcase the regional diversity, and you’ll learn how each one is made and what makes it special.

The chocolates are not just an afterthought. They are meticulously matched to enhance the wines’ flavors, creating a harmonious experience. Expect to try chocolates that bring out the minerality, fruitiness, or creaminess of each wine. The pairing aims to be both educational and indulgent, making each sip and bite memorable.

As you conclude, you’ll return to the boutique, often with some tips on local wines to try later or other nearby tasting opportunities. The entire tour wraps up in about 45 minutes, leaving you satisfied but eager to explore more of the region.

Who Would Enjoy This?

This experience is particularly well-suited for wine lovers who appreciate a personal touch. If you’re new to wine, the guides are friendly and informative without being overly technical, making it accessible to beginners. For seasoned wine enthusiasts, the curated selection and pairing approach provide new insights into Burgundy wines.

It’s ideal for small groups or intimate outings, especially if you’re traveling with a partner or friends and prefer personalized attention. The affordable price makes it a good value for a gourmet tasting without breaking the bank.

However, if your main goal is a comprehensive vineyard tour or extensive wine education, you might want to consider other experiences or add-ons. This tasting is focused and sensory-driven—more about enjoyment than deep-diving into the wine-making process.

Price and Logistics: What You Should Know

At $23 per person, this tasting offers good value, especially considering the quality of wines and chocolates. The 45-minute duration is perfect for fitting into a busy day of sightseeing or as a leisurely afternoon activity. Because the experience is small-group, it feels personalized and allows for questions and interaction.

Reservations are flexible, with the option to reserve now and pay later. Cancelations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance, which is helpful if your plans change unexpectedly.

The only caveat: it’s not suitable for children under 18, so plan accordingly if traveling with family. Accessibility is noted, with the tour being wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for a wider range of visitors.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This Chablis wine and chocolate tasting at Domaine Clotilde Davenne offers a delightful blend of regional charm, expert selections, and personal interaction. It’s a perfect taste of Burgundy’s quality wines paired with sweet treats that elevate the experience. For those who love discovering new flavor combinations or simply want a relaxing, intimate activity in Chablis, this is an excellent choice.

The high ratings and enthusiastic reviews suggest it’s consistently well-received, especially for its excellent wine selection and knowledgeable hosts. Whether you’re a casual traveler or a wine connoisseur, the affordability and small-group setting make it a worthwhile addition to your Burgundy itinerary.

This experience best suits travelers looking for a quick, enjoyable, and authentic taste of Chablis’s wine culture. It’s a great way to indulge in regional flavors without the commitment of a full vineyard tour, especially if you’re short on time but still seeking depth and quality.

FAQ

How long does the tasting last?
The tasting runs approximately 45 minutes, making it a perfect quick gourmet stop.

What wines are included?
You’ll sample wines like Chablis and Grand Auxerrois, paired with chocolates designed to enhance their flavors.

Is the experience suitable for children?
No, it is not suitable for those under 18 years old.

How many people are in the group?
The experience is limited to small groups of up to 6 participants, ensuring a personal and relaxed atmosphere.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

Do I need to pay upfront?
No, you can reserve now and pay later, giving you peace of mind to secure your spot without immediate payment.

Final Word

If you’re after a delightful, authentic encounter with Burgundy wines in a cozy setting, the wine and chocolat tasting at Domaine Clotilde Davenne is a fantastic choice. It’s a small, well-reviewed experience that combines high-quality wines, expert guidance, and a bit of sweet indulgence—all at a reasonable price. Perfect for a laid-back afternoon, a romantic outing, or a quick introduction to Chablis’s renowned wine scene.