Private Tour of 2 Estates with Wine Tasting in French Riviera

A Detailed Look at the Private Tour of 2 Estates with Wine Tasting in the French Riviera

If you’re seeking an authentic taste of Provence’s wine scene combined with a glimpse of local village life, this private tour offers a compelling package. For about eight hours, you’ll visit two distinct estates near Nice, each with its own character and vinification style, and enjoy a leisurely lunch in the picturesque village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence. Priced at approximately $756 for a group of up to 8 people, it’s a well-balanced experience that blends wine, culture, and scenery.

Two things stand out about this tour: the chance to compare traditional oak-barrel aging with innovative amphora vinification, and the opportunity to relax in a charming, artist-loved village in the middle of your day. The personalized nature of the tour—private transportation and guiding—means you get a tailored experience, not a crowded bus.

However, one consideration is that admission to the estates isn’t included in the price, so you’ll need to budget for those tickets separately. This tour will suit those who appreciate wine craftsmanship and want a taste of local Provençal life without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

Key Points

• Contrasting wine styles: Visit a classic château with oak barrel aging and a family-run estate with amphora vinification.
• Authentic village experience: Free time in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, a hub for artists and history.
• Personalized tour: Private transportation and expert guiding ensure a relaxed, informative day.
• Flexible itinerary: Guide’s adaptability means you might explore other charming spots if locations are closed.
• Focus on quality: The tour emphasizes real craftsmanship, not just tasting but understanding winemaking techniques.
• Price reflects intimacy and depth: Worth considering if you want a more intimate, immersive Provence experience.

A Closer Look at What This Tour Offers

Visiting Two Very Different Estates

The core of this tour is the visit to two different wine estates, each representing different facets of Provençal winemaking. The first estate is a protected designation of origin (AOP) château, where wine is traditionally transformed and produced on site, mostly using oak barrels. This estate produces wines mainly destined for local sales within the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region, which hints at a focus on quality and tradition. You’ll get a guided tour of the estate, with the guide explaining the details of classic vinification, such as barrel aging, which tends to add complexity and smoothness to the wines.

In contrast, the second estate is family-run and smaller in size. What makes it particularly interesting is its use of glass amphorae, where wine is vinified exposed to the sun for several months. This method, reminiscent of ancient techniques, yields wines with unique characteristics that differ from those aged in oak. The fact that this estate is transformed and produced on site means you’re tasting wines that come straight from the source, often with a more personal, artisanal touch.

The Expertise of Your Guide

Throughout the estate visits, you’ll have a specialized oenology guide with you. According to reviews, guides like Alexis bring a wealth of knowledge and a flexible attitude—quicker than expected to find alternatives if some locations are closed (which can happen during the busy European holiday season in August). The guide’s insights enrich the experience, helping you understand what makes each estate’s wines unique.

The Lunch in Saint-Paul-de-Vence

Between the two tastings, you’re free to explore and enjoy lunch in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, one of France’s most beloved villages. Known as an artist’s haven since 1926, it’s full of galleries, charming streets, and a Provençal atmosphere. The 2-hour free time allows you to stroll, take photos of the medieval ramparts, or simply relax on a terrace with a glass of local wine or a Provençal specialty. Many visitors find this village the perfect setting to unwind and soak up local life.

Practical Details and Value

While the price of $756 might seem high, consider what’s included: private transportation, personalized guiding, and visits to two very different estates. The cost does not include estate admission or lunch, so budget separately for those. The private nature of the tour means you avoid crowded groups, which adds value in terms of comfort and tailored attention.

Authentic, Flexible, and Personal

From a review by Matthew, who called it “a perfect day in Provence,” we learn that the guide was able to adapt quickly, making good use of available resources. The flexibility of a private tour makes a big difference, especially if some locations are temporarily closed.

The Itinerary in Detail

Estate 1: The Classic Château

Your day begins with a pickup from your accommodation in Nice, after which you’ll head to the first estate. This might be a large, protected vineyard with a long-standing reputation, producing wines with a classic Provençal profile. Expect a guided tour of the cellars, where the winemaker explains the traditional vinification process, emphasizing the use of oak barrels which impart complexity and balance. Tasting at this estate provides insight into how regional wines are crafted with a focus on tradition and terroir.

Estate 2: The Family-Run Amphora Winery

Next, you’ll visit a smaller, family-run estate that champions a more artisanal approach. Here, the wine is vinified in glass amphorae, stored in the sun for months, resulting in a different flavor profile—more expressive and possibly more mineral-driven. This contrasts sharply with the first estate and provides an excellent opportunity to taste innovative techniques that are gaining popularity in Provence.

Lunch in Saint-Paul-de-Vence

After the tastings, a short drive takes you into Saint-Paul-de-Vence, where you’ll have two hours to explore. This village’s narrow streets and fortified walls are perfect for a relaxed wander. Many visitors appreciate the artistic heritage and the chance to enjoy Provençal cuisine at local restaurants. Whether you opt for a light Tapas or a full Provençal meal, it’s a chance to savor regional flavors and enjoy the scenery.

Optional Additional Stops

Many guides are flexible, and if some estates are closed, they often suggest other nearby sights or wine-related activities, ensuring your day remains engaging.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

The Quality of the Wine Experience

The contrast between the two estates’ vinification methods offers a rare glimpse into Provencal wine craftsmanship. The traditional estate’s barrels give a sense of heritage, while the amphora technique showcases innovation. This variety enhances your understanding of how terroir, tradition, and experimentation shape regional wines.

The Authentic Village Visit

Many travelers cherish the opportunity to combine wine tasting with culture. Saint-Paul-de-Vence’s reputation as an artist’s enclave filled with galleries and history makes it more than just a scenic stop—it’s an experience of Provençal life and history, often described as a highlight by visitors.

The Personal Touch

The private nature of this tour, guided by a knowledgeable professional, means you’ll get tailored insights and comfortable pacing. As one reviewer notes, the guide “quickly found alternatives” when some locations were closed, showing a level of attentiveness and flexibility that’s hard to match with larger group tours.

The Overall Value

While the price might seem steep, it includes transport, personalized guiding, and exclusive visits—elements that add to the value. If you’re looking for a relaxed, in-depth exploration of Provence’s wine scene combined with the charm of local villages, this tour hits the mark.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

• Travelers wanting an intimate, behind-the-scenes look at Provençal winemaking.
• Those interested in comparing traditional and innovative vinification techniques.
• Visitors eager to combine wine tasting with cultural exploration in a historic village.
• Anyone comfortable with a private, approximately 8-hour experience that involves some walking and tasting.

This tour isn’t ideal if you’re on a tight budget or prefer larger group settings. It’s best suited for those who value depth, authenticity, and personalized service.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price covers private transportation, a guide specializing in oenology, and visits to two different wine estates. It does not include estate admission fees or lunch.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 8 hours, giving ample time for estate visits, a village stop, and leisurely tasting.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included but is available in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, giving you flexibility on where and what to eat.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 8 people, ensuring a relaxed and personal experience.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour is private, so guides like Alexis are known for flexibility and can adapt if some locations are closed or if you have specific interests.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, private transportation is included, making the day comfortable and stress-free.

Are wine tastings included?
Tastings are part of the estate visits, but estate admission fees are not included in the price.

What makes the two estates different?
One is a classic château with traditional vinification in oak barrels, and the other is a smaller family estate experimenting with amphora vinification exposed to the sun.

Is this tour suitable for wine beginners?
Absolutely. The guide explains the winemaking process, making it accessible whether you’re a novice or a connoisseur.

How do I handle estate admission fees?
You’ll need to purchase these separately. The guide can often help suggest where to buy tickets or the best times to visit.

Final Thoughts

This private tour of two contrasting Provençal estates offers a well-rounded look at the region’s wine culture. The combination of traditional and innovative vinification techniques makes it particularly appealing for those curious about how regional wines are crafted today. The inclusion of free time in Saint-Paul-de-Vence adds a layer of cultural richness, making it more than just a tasting trip.

The personalized approach, flexible guiding, and focus on authentic craftsmanship make this experience stand out. While it requires a bit of investment, the depth of knowledge, comfort, and memorable scenery justify the cost for travelers valuing quality over quantity.

If you’re eager to explore Provence’s wine traditions, enjoy charming villages, and prefer a tailored experience, this private tour will serve you well. It’s best suited for those who want to understand what makes Provençal wines unique, coupled with a taste of local life—delivering both education and leisure in one beautifully curated day.

Feel like a local, drink like a connoisseur, and enjoy the Provençal landscape—this tour offers all three in one satisfying package.