Savoy wine and cheese tasting in Annecy

If you’re headed to Annecy and want to indulge in a truly local gastronomic experience, the Savoy wine and cheese tasting offered by Agence 1786 is worth considering. This two-hour private tour takes you into the heart of Annecy’s old town, where a cheese maker crowned Meilleur Ouvrier de France and a knowledgeable sommelier will guide you through regional cheeses and wines. It’s a cozy, intimate experience designed to satisfy both aficionados and curious newcomers alike.

What I really appreciate about this experience is how personalized it feels—you’re not just part of a large group but are treated to a private session just for your party. Plus, the guides are clearly passionate. I love the way they share stories about the land, the grapes, and the cheeses, making each pairing a lesson in local heritage. Another highlight? The variety of cheeses, including Chevrotin and Beaufort d’Alpages, are fresh, flavorful, and authentically Savoie.

That said, one thing to consider is the price point—at over $460 per person, it’s an investment. If you’re on a tight budget, this might feel a bit steep, especially since it’s a short activity. However, for lovers of fine food, wine connoisseurs, or those wanting a special culinary experience, the quality and depth of knowledge make it worthwhile.

Key points / Takeaways

• Expert Guides: Led by a Meilleur Ouvrier de France cheese specialist and a knowledgeable sommelier, the tour feels both professional and approachable.
• Regional Focus: Everything is rooted in Savoie’s terroir, from the wines like Jacquère and Roussette to cheeses like Beaufort and Abondance.
• Personalized Experience: The private nature ensures a tailored, relaxed environment where questions are encouraged.
• Authentic Flavors: The cheeses and wines are carefully selected to showcase the best of Annecy’s local produce.
• Educational & Fun: Expect to learn not just about tasting but about the history and land that shape these products.
• Convenient Timing: Multiple morning or afternoon slots make it easy to fit into your Annecy itinerary.

Discovering the Hidden Charm of Annecy’s Cheese and Wine

Stepping into the workshop of a celebrated cheesemaker in Annecy’s Old Town is like entering a treasure chest of local flavors. The guides, especially the cheesemaker who has earned the coveted Meilleur Ouvrier de France title, bring a level of expertise that genuinely elevates the experience. They don’t just serve cheese and wine—they tell stories. You’ll learn about the landscapes that influence the aroma of the cheeses, such as the lush Alpine pastures that give us Tome des Bauges or the rolling Alps that produce Chevrotin.

I’ve always enjoyed tasting regional wines, and this tour offers a fine selection of the local varieties, including Chignin-Bergeron, Roussette, and Jacquère. The guides create five subtle pairings, each designed to highlight how well these wines complement the cheeses. One reviewer, who called the tour a “fantastic 2-hour experience,” appreciated the idea of pairing and the detailed explanations about the region’s history and how it affects the flavors.

You won’t be rushed through. Instead, you’ll share a convivial moment with your guides and perhaps even swap tips about how best to enjoy these flavors at home. It’s clear that this isn’t just about tasting but understanding and appreciating the craftsmanship behind each sip and bite.

The Itinerary: What Makes the Experience Special

Your journey begins at 47 Rue Carnot, right in the heart of Annecy’s Old Town. The meeting point couldn’t be more central, which is ideal after a morning coffee or a walk through the charming streets. The tour is typically around two hours, with flexible scheduling options for morning or afternoon.

The first part involves entering the cheesemaker’s workshop, where the passion for cheese-making is palpable. Here, the guides introduce you to cheeses like Tomme des Bauges and Beaufort d’Alpages, explaining their origins, production, and what makes each one unique. The detailed anecdotes—such as how the landscapes and climate influence the aroma—the guides share, make the tasting more meaningful.

Next, you’ll move to the wine tasting, where the sommelier introduces local grape varieties such as Jacquère and Roussette. The five pairings are carefully curated, each showcasing how the cheeses and wines enhance each other. These pairings are not random; they are crafted to elevate your understanding of regional flavors and improve your palate.

Throughout, the guides emphasize education. For example, one reviewer mentioned how the excellent information about the region’s wines and cheeses made the experience stand out. The guides are engaging, sharing stories and little tips—like how to best enjoy cheese with wine—that stay with you long after the tour ends.

Price and Value: Is It Worth It?

At $462.73 per person, this isn’t your typical tasting, but it’s packed with value for those who appreciate the finer things in life. You’re paying for a private, expert-led experience that offers in-depth knowledge, authentic regional products, and a personal touch. It’s particularly well-suited for couples, small groups, or anyone celebrating a special occasion.

Reviews suggest that the quality of the wines and cheeses is high, and the guides’ expertise makes the price justifiable. One traveler noted how much they learned and appreciated the “interesting and good” wines and cheeses they sampled. Plus, the tour provides a memorable, hands-on introduction to Annecy’s local gastronomy that’s hard to match in a typical restaurant setting.

Keep in mind, this isn’t a large group affair—your own space and attention from guides make it an intimate experience, ideal for those who value personalized service and storytelling.

Who Should Book this Experience?

If you love discovering regional flavors, enjoy learning about the land through its food and drink, or are a connoisseur seeking a more refined tasting, this experience is a fantastic choice. It’s also perfect for those who want a private outing, away from large tour groups, with expert guides who are eager to share their passion.

However, if you’re on a tight timetable or budget, you might find this experience a bit costly. But for the price, you get a well-structured, educational event that enriches your understanding of Annecy’s culinary traditions.

The Sum Up: The Perfect Blend of Flavor and Culture

This private cheese and wine tasting in Annecy offers an authentic glimpse into the region’s culinary soul. The guides’ knowledge, paired with carefully selected local products, makes for a memorable two hours. It’s especially ideal if you’re a foodie, a wine lover, or someone craving a taste of local craftsmanship in a cozy setting.

Though on the pricier side, the experience’s intimacy, educational depth, and high-quality offerings justify the cost. You’ll walk away not just with a full belly but with a new appreciation for how geography, tradition, and skill produce the flavors that define Annecy’s food scene.

If you want an engaging, personal, and delicious introduction to local Savoie cheese and wines, this tour is a smart pick—and a delightful way to connect with Annecy’s culinary heritage.

FAQs

Is this tour private or a group?
This experience is exclusively private, meaning only your group participates, providing a personalized and relaxed atmosphere.

What’s included in the price?
You get a tasting of regional cheeses and wines, with guided explanations from experts—no hidden extras.

Can I choose the tour time?
Yes, multiple morning and afternoon slots are available, making it flexible to fit your schedule.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately two hours, giving enough time to enjoy and learn without feeling rushed.

Are there any additional costs?
Personal expenses and insurance aren’t included, so bring some cash if you want to buy extra cheese or wine.

Is the meeting point easy to find?
Yes, the starting point at 47 Rue Carnot is centrally located in Annecy’s old town, near public transportation.

What’s the best way to prepare for the tasting?
Come hungry and curious! The guides encourage questions, so feel free to ask about the wines, cheeses, or local traditions.