Bordeaux Full day Medoc and St Emilion Wine Tour with Lunch

Bordeaux Full Day Medoc and Saint-Emilion Wine Tour with Lunch: An Authentic Wine Lover’s Experience

Imagine spending a full day exploring two of Bordeaux’s most celebrated wine regions—the Medoc and Saint-Emilion—with a knowledgeable guide leading the way. For around $236 per person, this 8.5-hour tour takes you from the grand 1855 classified estates to charming, family-run wineries, with plenty of tastings, a picnic in a historic chateau garden, and a walk through UNESCO-listed Saint-Emilion.

What we love most about this experience is the personalized attention offered by limiting the group size to just eight travelers—meaning more time for questions and a relaxed pace. Also, the inclusion of guided vineyard tours and tastings at prestigious châteaux makes it feel like an insider’s journey rather than a rushed sightseeing trip.

A possible consideration is the length of the day—from 9 am to around 5:30 pm, travelers are on the go, which might be tiring if you’re not accustomed to full-day excursions. But for true wine enthusiasts eager to learn about Bordeaux’s varied terroirs and wines, this tour hits the sweet spot.

This experience caters best to those who appreciate authentic wine tastings, are comfortable with a full schedule, and enjoy small-group intimacy. If you love learning from passionate guides and want to see both Grand Cru estates and hidden family wineries, you’ll find this trip well worth it.

Key Points

• Small group size (max 8) ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed experience.
• Guided visits to three wineries provide detailed insights into Bordeaux wine-making.
• Tastings of 7-8 wines allow a comprehensive exploration of red Bordeaux styles.
• Picnic lunch in a Château garden adds a scenic, authentic touch to the day.
• Includes visits to UNESCO World Heritage-listed Saint-Emilion for a charming village experience.
• Expert guides like Gilliam, Vicky, and Fabien receive high praise for knowledge and friendliness.
• Transport by air-conditioned minivan keeps comfort up during long travel stretches.
• Timing is well-balanced, with a 9 am start and return around 5:30 pm, making it suitable for most full-day plans.

A Genuine Look at the Bordeaux Medoc and Saint-Emilion Wine Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Bordeaux and want to truly taste the region’s diversity of wines, this full-day tour offers a well-rounded introduction. It’s designed for travelers who don’t want to settle for quick tastings but prefer to see the vineyards, learn about the wine-making process, and walk through historic villages.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The day kicks off at 2792 Pl. des Quinconces in Bordeaux, with a 9 am departure. The first stop is in Margaux, where you’ll visit a Growth Classified 1855 château. Here, you’ll get the chance to see the vineyards and cellars that produce some of Bordeaux’s most iconic wines. The taste of a Grand Cru at this estate is a definite highlight, especially if you’re interested in what makes Bordeaux wines so highly regarded globally.

Next, the tour moves to Château Côte de Baleau, where you’ll enjoy a more intimate visit, including a presentation and a wine tasting. The lunch in the château’s garden adds a special touch—imagine sitting amidst vines, enjoying local wines paired with a picnic. One reviewer highlighted that, despite being vegetarian, they still enjoyed a good meal, which suggests thoughtfulness in catering.

The afternoon is dedicated to Saint-Emilion, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its picturesque medieval architecture and world-class wines. You’ll visit a family-run estate, where you can experience a more personal, less commercial atmosphere. The guided tour here includes a walk through the village, visiting the Eglise Collegiale de Saint-Emilion—a medieval church—and a chance to explore the charming streets, full of quaint shops and historic charm.

Throughout the day, you’ll taste 7 to 8 wines, with 2-3 wines at each estate. Reviews praise the guides for their knowledge and friendly demeanor, making the tastings engaging rather than just a quick sip-and-go. One reviewer said, “Vicky was a great guide, very informative and accommodating,” emphasizing how the personal touch elevates the experience.

The Highlights and Authentic Touches

The vineyard tours and cellar visits give you insight into the wine-making process, not just the tasting. A reviewer noted that the aroma workshop helped them better understand wine, which is perfect if you’re keen to expand your wine vocabulary. The picnic lunch is another standout—rather than a rushed meal, it’s a scenic, relaxed setting that makes the experience feel genuine and special.

The small group size—no more than 8 travelers—is a major plus, keeping the atmosphere intimate. This is reflected in reviews where guests mention the personalized attention and relaxed pace.

Transportation and Timing

Traveling in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan allows you to sit back and enjoy the scenery. The start time at 9 am is ideal, not too early, and you’re back in Bordeaux by around 5:30 pm—a good length for a full-day tour without feeling overly rushed.

Possible Drawbacks

Some reviews mention that the lunch could be more substantial, with a few describing it as minimal—just a cup of couscous and a muffin. If you’re a big eater or expecting a hearty meal, this might be a minor disappointment. Also, the tour’s longevity means it can be quite full; a few travelers felt it was a long day, especially with multiple winery visits.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for wine enthusiasts who want to see both prestigious estates and family-run wineries without the hassle of planning logistics. It suits those who value small-group experiences and guided insights into Bordeaux wines and culture. If you’re curious about the history of Saint-Emilion or interested in tasting a variety of Bordeaux reds, this tour hits the mark. It’s also suitable for vegetarians, as one reviewer noted, thanks to the considerate lunch arrangements.

Final Thoughts

This Bordeaux full-day tour offers a balanced, authentic experience that combines beautiful scenery, rich wines, and personal guidance. It’s a solid choice for travelers who want more than just a quick tasting, offering a window into both the prestige and charm of Bordeaux’s wine regions.

The small group size, diverse visits, and scenic picnic make it stand out among many wine tours. Even the price point reflects good value when you consider multiple guided tastings, estate visits, and the scenic drive through Bordeaux’s vineyards.

While the lunch might not satisfy a big appetite, it’s a charming, scenic break that complements the day’s learning and tasting. The expert guides and carefully curated itinerary ensure that you walk away with more than just a head full of wine facts—you get a genuine taste of Bordeaux’s wine culture.

Overall, if you’re eager to explore Bordeaux’s diverse wine regions intimately, this tour should be at the top of your list. It’s ideal for small groups, wine lovers, and those wanting a relaxed, authentic experience in one of France’s most celebrated wine countries.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour begins at the designated meeting point at 2792 Pl. des Quinconces in Bordeaux.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 9 am and returning around 5:30 pm.

What is the group size?
The group is limited to 8 travelers, ensuring more personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

Are there wine tastings at every estate?
Yes, you will sample 7 to 8 wines across three different wineries, with 2-3 tastings per estate.

What does the lunch include?
A picnic lunch in the garden of Château Côte de Baleau, with vegetarian options available, as noted by a happy guest.

Can I buy wine and ship it home?
Many wineries offer the opportunity to purchase and ship wine, as some reviews suggest, but this is not explicitly arranged through the tour.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the minimum age is 4 years old, making it family-friendly.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for walking and outdoor visits. Bring a hat and sunscreen for the vineyard stops.

How is transportation arranged?
Transport is in an air-conditioned minivan, with a professional driver-guide leading the day.

This full-day Bordeaux wine adventure strikes a nice balance between education, tasting, and scenic exploration. It’s a memorable way to deepen your appreciation for Bordeaux wines and culture, especially if you prefer intimate, guided experiences over large group tours.