Exploring the renowned wine region of St Emilion from Bordeaux promises an immersive and captivating day for oenophiles and adventurous travelers alike. This full-day tour offers a chance to visit three prestigious classified growth châteaux, uncovering the distinctive characteristics of the appellation’s premier appellations through expert-led tastings. But the experience doesn’t end there – a stroll through the picturesque UNESCO-listed village of St Emilion provides a glimpse into its charming medieval ambiance and architectural wonders. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or simply seeking a unique cultural adventure, this tour delivers an unforgettable blend of flavors, history, and scenic splendor that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.
Key Points
- A full-day tour from Bordeaux that includes visits and tastings at three renowned classified growth châteaux in the St Emilion wine region.
- Opportunity to explore the picturesque medieval village of St Emilion, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with a guided walking tour and time for lunch.
- Transportation provided in comfortable and fully equipped minivans with a maximum group size of 8 participants.
- Led by an English-speaking guide, providing immersion in the rich wine culture and history of the region.
- An optional additional one-hour wine tasting available for those interested in further exploring the renowned Merlot and Cabernet Franc-based blends of the appellation.
Tour Highlights
The St Emilion Wine Tasting Tour offers visitors the opportunity to visit and enjoy wine tastings at three classified growth chateaux, along with a short walking tour of the picturesque St Emilion village.
Participants will be transported in comfortable and fully equipped minivans, ensuring a relaxing and hassle-free experience.
The tour provides a chance to take in the rich wine culture of the region, with expert guidance from a live tour guide.
Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply looking to explore the charming town of St Emilion, this tour promises an unforgettable day filled with exceptional wines and breathtaking scenery.
Tour Details
This St Emilion Wine Tasting Tour spans 8 hours and limits group size to 8 participants, ensuring a personalized experience led by a live English-speaking guide.
After a 45-minute van transfer to the first winery, guests will enjoy a 1-hour wine tasting. The tour then moves to the second winery, a 30-minute drive away, for another 1-hour tasting.
Next, the group will have 2 hours to explore the charming St Emilion village and enjoy lunch. An optional additional 1-hour wine tasting may be available before the 45-minute van transfer back to the starting point.
The tour includes:
- Visits and tastings at 3 classified growth chateaux
- A walking tour of historic St Emilion
- Comfortable transport in a fully-equipped minivan
Experience Overview
Guests embark on a captivating journey through the renowned wine region of St Emilion, beginning with a comfortable 45-minute van transfer to the first winery.
Upon arrival, they’ll enjoy an hour-long visit and wine tasting at a prestigious classified growth château.
The tour then continues with a 30-minute transfer to the next winery, where guests will savor another hour-long tasting experience.
After, the group will break for a leisurely two-hour lunch in the charming village of St Emilion.
An optional additional tasting may then be offered before the van whisks them back to Bustours Bordeaux, completing the 8-hour excursion through this celebrated wine country.
Winery Visits
Visiting three acclaimed classified growth châteaux forms the core of this immersive St Emilion wine tasting tour, where guests embark on an oenological journey through the region’s renowned terroirs.
At each estate, knowledgeable guides lead captivating tastings, introducing the distinctive characteristics of the appellation’s premier appellations. Guests savor the nuances of the area’s world-class Merlot and Cabernet Franc-based blends, gaining a deeper appreciation for the complexities of Saint Emilion’s winemaking heritage.
A stroll through the picturesque medieval village of Saint Emilion, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Opportunities to purchase wines directly from the châteaux.
Ample time to enjoy a leisurely lunch in the charming village.
Saint Emilion Village
After exploring the renowned vineyards, visitors can wander through the charming medieval streets of Saint Emilion, a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a captivating glimpse into the region’s rich history and cultural heritage.
The village’s quaint cobblestone lanes are lined with ancient stone buildings, some dating back to the 11th century. Visitors can admire the impressive Monolithic Church, a stunning underground church carved into a limestone cliff, or climb the 196 steps to the top of the Tour du Roy tower for panoramic views over the village and surrounding vineyards.
With its picturesque squares, traditional shops, and lively cafes, Saint Emilion provides a delightful respite from wine tasting, allowing travelers to soak up the ambiance of this historic French town.
Optional Wine Tasting
Although the tour’s main program concludes with the transfer back to the starting point, travelers who wish to indulge in an additional wine tasting can opt for an optional experience at one of the renowned local cellars.
This extra tasting provides an opportunity to delve deeper into the complexities of Saint Emilion’s acclaimed wines. Participants can:
- Explore a carefully curated selection of premium vintages, discovering the unique terroir and winemaking techniques that contribute to the region’s reputation.
- Engage in an intimate, personalized tasting session led by a knowledgeable sommelier, who’ll share insights into the history, characteristics, and food-pairing potential of the wines.
- Savor the flavors and aromas of these exceptional wines, further enriching the overall wine-tasting experience.
Transportation and Guide
The tour provides comfortable and convenient transportation, allowing participants to focus on savoring the wine tasting experience without the hassle of driving. Travelers are transported in a fully equipped minivan, accompanied by a knowledgeable driver who also serves as a wine guide throughout the day. The tour guide not only ensures a smooth journey, but also shares their expertise on the history, terroir, and winemaking practices of the region, enriching the overall experience.
| Tour Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Transportation | Comfortable and fully equipped minivan |
| Tour Guide | Knowledgeable driver who serves as a wine guide |
| Group Size | Limited to 8 participants |
| Duration | 8 hours |
Inclusions and Exclusions
The inclusions and exclusions of the St Emilion Wine Tasting Tour clearly delineate the offerings covered by the package, ensuring transparency and setting appropriate expectations for participants.
The tour includes:
- Visits and wine tastings at three classified growth chateaux in the St Emilion region
- A walking tour of the picturesque St Emilion village
- A knowledgeable driver/wine guide to provide commentary and facilitate the experience
The tour doesn’t include meals, drinks, or entrance fees to any monuments, museums, or attractions beyond those mentioned. Plus, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Request a Pick-Up Location Other Than the Meeting Point?
Certainly, guests can request alternative pick-up locations, though this may incur an additional charge. The tour operator strives to accommodate special requests when possible to ensure a seamless and personalized experience for all participants.
Is the Wine Tasting Included in the Tour Fee?
The wine tastings at the 3 classified growth chateaux are included in the tour fee. Participants can enjoy the full experience of discovering Saint-Émilion’s renowned wines without any additional costs.
Are Any Dietary Requirements Catered for During the Tour?
The tour company does not explicitly cater for dietary requirements. Participants with special dietary needs should inform the tour provider in advance so they can attempt to accommodate them during the free time in St Emilion village.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tour?
The tour has a flexible cancellation policy, allowing customers to receive a full refund if they cancel up to 24 hours prior to the scheduled start time. This ensures travelers can plan their trip with confidence.
Can I Book the Tour for a Private Group?
Yes, the tour can be booked for a private group. The tour operator offers the flexibility to accommodate private groups, allowing you to enjoy the wine tastings and sights at your own pace with a dedicated guide.
Recap
Enjoy the captivating world of St Emilion on this full-day tour from Bordeaux.
Discover the region’s renowned wines through tastings at prestigious châteaux, explore the charming medieval village, and soak up the rich history and picturesque landscapes.
With transportation and a knowledgeable guide, this tour offers a seamless and unforgettable experience in one of France’s premier wine destinations.
