Half day in Pomerol and Saint Emilion in a classic car

Exploring Bordeaux’s renowned wine territories in a vintage car offers more than just a taste of fine wine—it’s a journey back in time. This half-day tour takes you through the storied vineyards of Pomerol and Saint-Émilion, two of France’s most celebrated wine regions, all wrapped in the charm of a classic Citroën 2CV convertible. Guided by Cécilia, a professional wine taster and vineyard specialist, this experience promises a blend of scenic beauty, authentic tasting, and a touch of vintage flair.

What I find particularly appealing about this tour are the intimate access to family-run châteaux and the opportunity to enjoy stunning vineyard views from the open-top car, which adds a layer of fun and authenticity. The fact that it’s a private experience means you won’t be stuck with a large group, allowing for more personalized insights and relaxed pacing. Plus, Cécilia’s expertise helps make complex wine topics approachable and engaging.

One possible consideration is that the price point of around $577 per person might seem steep for some travelers, especially considering it’s a half-day experience. However, the value lies in the exclusive access, the guided visits, and the unique vintage car ride—an experience that’s hard to replicate in standard wine tours. Also, booking about 70 days in advance suggests this is a sought-after adventure for those serious about wine and vintage cars alike.

Key Points/Takeaways

Vintage Charm Enhances the Experience: Riding in a Citroën 2CV convertible adds an unforgettable nostalgic touch to the vineyard visits. It’s not just transportation, but part of the experience.

Expert Guidance with Cécilia: Her background as a professional wine taster and Bordeaux vineyard specialist ensures you gain meaningful insights into the wines and regions.

Exclusive Visits to Family-Owned Châteaux: You’ll explore Château Taillefer in Pomerol and Château Tauzinat l’Hermitage in Saint-Émilion, learning about their history and production in intimate settings.

Scenic and Authentic: The tour offers stunning views of vineyard landscapes and the charming streets of Saint-Émilion, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with authentic French village atmosphere.

Tasting Experience: A guided wine tasting of 3 wines at the end offers a perfect conclusion, with the winemaker sharing secrets behind each pour.

Flexible and Private: As a private tour, it provides flexibility and a tailored experience suited for couples, friends, or small groups eager for personalized attention.

Discovering Bordeaux’s Vineyards in a Classic Car

This tour begins with a warm welcome from Cécilia, whose passion for Bordeaux wines shines through. True to her expertise, she does the heavy lifting—timing, navigation, and sharing insights—so you can simply soak in the scenery and learn. Her background as a wine taster means her explanations are both knowledgeable and engaging.

The first stop is Château Taillefer in Pomerol, a region famed for its soft, velvety reds. Here, you’ll learn about the vineyard’s history and production, walking through the vineyards and cellars. The tour lasts about 30 minutes at each winery, giving enough time to get a sense of the estate’s character without feeling rushed. The diversity and finesse of Pomerol wines are palpable, especially when contrasted with the Saint-Emilion wines you’ll taste later.

Next, you’ll visit Château Tauzinat l’Hermitage, a Saint-Emilion Grand Cru. Juliette, from Château Gaubert, warmly welcomes visitors into her family estate, adding a personal touch to your experience. She shares her passion for the land and the craft of winemaking, making the visit more than just a tour—it’s a heartfelt story about a family’s dedication.

The scenic drive through the vineyards, with the open-air car offering panoramic views, is a highlight that travelers affectionately mention. “Our time with Cécilia was an absolute delight,” one reviewer notes, appreciating how she timed the trip to Saint-Émilion perfectly, letting us enjoy the views without rushing.

Exploring Saint-Émilion: A True French Gem

The tour’s third stop is Saint-Émilion, a picture-perfect village that’s earned UNESCO World Heritage status. Here, you’ll enjoy about 30 minutes wandering its narrow, cobbled streets, discovering boutiques, cafes, and historic sites. The views over the vineyards from the hilltop are stunning, and the village’s architecture offers a real sense of history.

Most travelers find these moments to be a highlight, as “the charm of the small, authentic streets” is hard to beat. The visit wraps up with a wine tasting led by a knowledgeable winemaker, where you’ll sample three different wines, gaining insights into their production.

Practicalities and Value

At around $577 per person, this tour isn’t inexpensive. But considering the private nature, the expert guidance, and the vintage car ride, many find it to be a high-value experience. The inclusion of admission tickets to the wineries and the personalized tastings makes it more than just a scenic drive.

The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, which balances a relaxed pace with enough time at each stop. Pickup is available, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, including those with service animals. Planning well ahead—about 70 days in advance—ensures you secure a spot in this popular experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wine lovers eager for an intimate, authentic visit to Bordeaux’s vineyard regions. It’s perfect for those who appreciate vintage cars and want a more personal, relaxed pace. Couples, small groups, or anyone who enjoys a touch of history and charm in their wine explorations will find plenty to love.

If you’re looking for an activity that combines scenic beauty, expert insights, and a sense of adventure in a classic car, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s especially suited for travelers wanting to avoid large groups or crowded tours, as it’s a private experience.

The Sum Up

This half-day Bordeaux tour in a Citroën 2CV offers a distinctive blend of scenic drives, intimate winery visits, and authentic village exploration. The combination of stunning vineyard views, personalized wine tastings, and vintage charm makes it stand out from standard wine tours. The knowledgeable guidance from Cécilia and Juliette enhances the experience, making complex wine topics accessible and enjoyable.

While the price might seem high at first glance, the exclusivity, comfort, and memorable nature of the experience justify the cost for many. If you’re a wine enthusiast craving a deeper, more authentic encounter with Bordeaux’s vineyards, this tour presents a memorable way to soak in the region’s beauty and flavors.

In short, it’s a beautifully curated journey that appeals to travelers who value authenticity and a touch of vintage magic—truly a classic Bordeaux experience.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, though it’s designed for adults who enjoy wine and scenic drives. Service animals are allowed.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers private guiding, visits to two family-owned wineries, wine tastings of three wines, and the scenic drive in the vintage Citroën.

How long does the whole experience last?
The tour lasts about 5 hours, providing enough time for visits, tastings, and sightseeing without feeling rushed.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Given that most bookings are made approximately 70 days in advance, last-minute availability may be limited, so planning ahead is recommended.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup service is offered, and the main transportation is the classic Citroën 2CV convertible.

Are there group discounts?
The experience is private for your group only, but group discounts may be available; it’s best to inquire directly.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for a scenic outdoor drive and walking in vineyard and village settings.

Are there options for vegetarians or specific dietary needs?
The tour description doesn’t specify, but it’s advisable to communicate dietary restrictions when booking.

What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible enough to accommodate change of plans.

This Bordeaux vineyard adventure in a vintage car promises a memorable blend of scenic charm, authentic wine experiences, and personalized attention. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or just looking for an extraordinary day in France’s wine country, it’s a journey worth considering.