Imagine wandering through the historic streets of Dijon, then stepping into a cozy cellar just opposite the Saint-Bénigne cathedral for a taste of Burgundy’s finest. For just $57 per person, you’ll enjoy a 1-hour guided experience that shows off the region’s renowned terroir—through four carefully selected Burgundy wines, each paired with a local cheese, finishing with a sweet regional specialty.
What we really love about this experience is the chance to explore regional pairings in an intimate, authentic setting. It’s a no-pressure way to understand how Burgundy’s climats influence flavor, and how local cheese and sweets bring out the best in the wines. Plus, the guide, Leo, gets consistently high praise for his knowledge and friendliness—making the tasting not just educational, but also warm and personal.
A possible consideration is that the experience is only an hour long, which might leave some wanting more in-depth tasting or historical context. It’s perfect for those on a tight schedule, or travelers who want a quick but meaningful introduction to Burgundy’s culinary treasures.
This tour appeals most to visitors looking for a relaxed, authentic taste of Burgundy’s regional specialties, especially if you appreciate well-chosen wines and cheeses in a friendly atmosphere. It’s ideal for food lovers, wine enthusiasts, or anyone curious about the local flavors beyond just sightseeing.
Key Points
- Authentic Setting: Tasting takes place in a charming cellar across from a historic cathedral.
- Regional Focus: Emphasis on Climats de Bourgogne, a UNESCO site, offering a genuine regional experience.
- Expert Guide: Leo’s knowledgeable, friendly explanations enhance understanding and enjoyment.
- Flavor Harmony: Perfectly paired wines and cheeses showcase how textures and flavors complement each other.
- Sweet Finish: The artisanal crème de cassis paired with a nonnette adds a unique, regional dessert touch.
- Value for Money: For $57, you get a well-curated, memorable tasting experience, with excellent reviews supporting its quality.
A Closer Look: What to Expect During the Tasting
When you arrive at La Source des Vins, you’ll find yourself in a cozy cellar that feels more like a friend’s wine cellar than a tourist trap. Its location, right across from the Saint-Bénigne cathedral, sets an atmospheric tone for your exploration of Burgundy’s culinary culture.
The Wines
You’ll sample four Burgundy wines, each representing different parts of the Climats—the vineyards that make Burgundy so special. These wines are chosen to display the region’s diversity and finesse, and the guide will explain what makes each one unique. Whether it’s a delicate white from Côte de Beaune or a more robust red from Côte de Nuits, you’ll learn how Burgundy’s vines are influenced by the landscape and climate.
Cheese Pairings
Each wine is paired with a regional cheese, and the guide will describe the textures and flavors that make these cheeses local treasures. Expect to understand why certain cheeses are ideal companions for Burgundy wines, with insights into regional dairy traditions that have been passed down for generations. Reviewers mention that the cheese quality is excellent and well thought out, making the pairing genuinely enjoyable.
The Sweet Touch
The experience concludes with a taste of artisanal crème de cassis, a blackcurrant liqueur that is a Burgundy specialty. Known for its aromatic depth and roundness, it provides a beautiful contrast to the savory cheeses. To complement this, you’ll enjoy a nonnette, a gingerbread-based pastry filled with orange marmalade—another regional delicacy. This sweet finish encapsulates Burgundy’s skill in combining flavors and tradition.
What the Reviews Say
Many visitors highlight the knowledge and approachability of guide Leo, with comments like “Leo and staff were wonderful,” and “Leo was very knowledgeable and accommodating.” Several reviewers mention that the wine and cheese pairings were excellent and that the experience is both educational and comfortable, perfect for those new to wine tasting or seasoned enthusiasts alike.
One traveler from the UK appreciated the clarity of explanations about Burgundy’s wine regions, noting that Leo’s insights clarified the differences between various wines—adding educational value to the tasting. Others mention that the atmosphere is relaxed yet refined, making it suitable for casual groups or couples.
A common theme: The quality of the wines and cheeses is consistently praised, with many saying they’re still thinking about the flavors days later. The experience is also seen as a great overview of what Dijon has to offer, especially if your time is limited.
The Practical Details
This tour lasts about one hour and is available in French and English, making it accessible to most travelers. The small group setting ensures personalized attention, and the location across from Saint-Bénigne cathedral adds to the sense of authenticity.
Tickets are fully cancellable up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility if your plans change. You can also reserve now with a pay later option, helpful for planning your itinerary.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
If you’re a foodie or a wine lover wanting a quick yet enriching experience, this is a perfect choice. It’s great for couples, friends, or solo travelers who enjoy tasting and learning in a friendly, intimate setting. Those looking for in-depth historical or vineyard visits might want to supplement this with other tours, but for an authentic tasting that highlights regional flavors, it hits the mark.
The Value of a Burgundy Tasting Experience
For just $57, this experience offers a curated look at Burgundy’s climats, distinctive wines, and traditional cheeses, topped with a touch of regional sweetness. The small group format and knowledgeable guide make it more than just a tasting—it’s a mini culture.
The careful selection of wines ensures you see the diversity of Burgundy’s terroir, from whites to reds, each with a story to tell. The cheeses help you understand why regional dairy products have persisted over centuries, and the crème de cassis offers a taste of Burgundy’s famous blackcurrants—used in everything from liqueurs to desserts.
Overall, it’s a balanced experience that respects the region’s traditions while delivering an enjoyable, memorable tasting. It’s perfect if you want to sample regional specialties without committing hours or spending a fortune.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this experience suitable for children?
No, it’s designed for adults, especially since it involves wine and regional spirits, and children under 5 are not recommended.
Can I cancel my booking if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your travel plans.
Is the tour accessible for people in wheelchairs?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for guests with mobility needs.
Do I need to speak French to understand the guide?
No, the tour is offered in both French and English, so language should not be a barrier.
How long is the tasting?
The entire experience lasts about one hour, making it easy to fit into a busy sightseeing day.
Are the wines regionally representative?
Yes, the four wines represent the diversity and finesse of Climats de Bourgogne, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
What kinds of cheeses are served?
While specific cheeses aren’t listed, they are regional and paired to complement each wine, emphasizing local dairy traditions.
Is food included besides cheese and sweets?
No, the focus is on wine, regional cheeses, and the sweet desserts—no additional food is provided.
Can I book the experience in advance?
Absolutely, reservations are recommended, and the booking can be made with the option to pay later.
Final thoughts
This Dijon wine and cheese tasting offers a genuine taste of Burgundy in a cozy, authentic setting. The combination of regional wines, cheeses, and sweets provides a well-rounded introduction to the area’s culinary delights. With a knowledgeable guide like Leo, it’s both educational and enjoyable—perfect for those who want a snapshot of Burgundy’s rich flavors without a lengthy commitment.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned wine enthusiast, this experience enhances your understanding of Burgundy’s terroir and traditions in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. It’s a smart choice for anyone eager to discover the region’s treasures in a way that’s both fun and meaningful.
If you’re after a quick, high-quality tasting that highlights local flavors and offers a glimpse into Burgundy’s culinary culture, this tour is definitely worth considering. It’s a memorable, reasonably priced way to savor some of the best that Dijon and Burgundy have to offer.