Blind Tasting: 4 Bordeaux Natural Wine + Cheese experience

Bordeaux’s Hidden Gem: A Blind Tasting of 4 Natural Wines with Cheese

Imagine spending an hour in the heart of Nouvelle-Aquitaine, where you get to explore some of Bordeaux’s most intriguing natural wines, all while savoring a selection of local cheeses and charcuterie. For just $31 per person, this one-hour experience offers an accessible, fun, and educational introduction to Bordeaux’s wine scene. Led by a knowledgeable and friendly sommelier, you’ll learn to appreciate the complexity of Bordeaux wines beyond their reputation, discovering their stories, regional differences, and pairing secrets.

What we love about this experience is how approachable and relaxed it feels—perfect for those who want to taste without feeling overwhelmed. The blind tasting is especially engaging because it strips away preconceptions, allowing your senses to lead the way. Plus, the inclusion of local cheeses and small family chateaux wines adds a genuine flavor of Bordeaux’s terroir.

One possible consideration is that the group size can vary, so if you’re hoping for a highly intimate setting, it’s worth checking the booking details. Also, this experience isn’t suited for pregnant women or children under 18, so keep that in mind if you’re traveling as a family or expecting.

This tour is ideal for wine enthusiasts, curious travelers wanting a taste of Bordeaux’s authentic wine culture, or anyone eager to learn a few tips on reading French labels and food pairing—all in an informal, friendly atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Educational & Fun: Learn about Bordeaux’s grape varieties, wine regions, and classifications while enjoying a blind tasting.
• Authentic Experience: Sample 4 natural Bordeaux wines from different regions, paired with local cheeses and charcuterie.
• Expert Guidance: Enjoy the insights of an experienced, approachable sommelier who shares stories and secrets behind Bordeaux wines.
• Value for Money: At only $31, this is a cost-effective way to deepen your understanding of Bordeaux wine culture.
• Tactile & Tasty: The blind tasting, combined with cheese and meats, makes for a sensory adventure that’s both educational and delicious.
• Accessibility: The activity is wheelchair accessible and available in English and French.

A Closer Look at the Bordeaux Blind Wine & Cheese Experience

We found that this experience offers much more than just tasting wines. It’s a glimpse into Bordeaux’s diverse wine regions through the lens of natural wines, which are gaining popularity for their minimal intervention and vibrant flavors. The tour is based in front of Saint Michel Church, a lively and historic spot, making it easy to find and adding a touch of local charm right from the start.

What the Tour Entails

The hour kicks off with a warm greeting from your sommelier, who begins by telling stories about the winemakers, vintage years, and Bordeaux’s rich history. You’re handed a tasting card with flavor notes, which is a simple but effective tool to help you identify what you’re experiencing—no intimidating wine jargon here.

Next, the blind tasting of four wines unfolds—one white, two reds, and one sweet wine. The blind aspect means you won’t know which wine is which, helping you focus on your senses rather than preconceptions. The wines come from small family-owned chateaux, all organic and locally produced, emphasizing Bordeaux’s boutique side rather than big commercial brands.

While tasting, you’ll enjoy a cheese platter featuring three different types of cheese and two types of dry meat. These pairings are thoughtfully selected to complement the wines, showcasing the regional flavors and terroirs.

The Educational Element

What really sets this tour apart is the learning component. Your guide explains how to read a French wine label, deciphers the 1855 classification (a key Bordeaux wine hierarchy), and discusses food pairing tips. You’ll also hear about why wine hangovers aren’t caused by sulphur, dispelling a common myth—did you know fruits and vegetables contain more sulphur than wine? This kind of practical info appeals to curious travelers eager to understand wine on a deeper level.

Several reviewers mention how knowledgeable guides enhance the experience. Sebastian from Germany appreciated the “fantastic” atmosphere and the guide’s ability to speak excellent English, making the experience accessible even if your French isn’t perfect.

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The Food & Drink

The cheese and charcuterie are praised for their quality and local authenticity. One reviewer noted that the platter was “delicious” and added a satisfying dimension to the tasting. Since all wines are local, organic, and produced by small family estates, you get a genuine taste of Bordeaux’s terroir, not mass-produced commercial wine.

The Atmosphere & Group Size

While the experience is generally described as relaxed and friendly, some reviews mention that the guide might not always be able to answer every question in detail, especially when busy. Still, most found it a pleasant, engaging environment where laughter and curiosity are encouraged. The group size isn’t specified but seems to be small enough to feel intimate.

The Cost & Value

At $31 per person, this experience is quite competitive. Considering the quality of wines, the cheese platter, and the educational value, it offers excellent value for money—especially for those new to Bordeaux wines or seeking a fun, informative activity without a hefty price tag.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wine lovers who want an introduction to Bordeaux’s natural wines in a relaxed setting. It’s also suitable for curious travelers eager to learn about Wine Classification, food pairing, and label reading in a friendly environment. Because it’s not overly technical, even those with limited wine knowledge can enjoy and learn.

However, if you’re seeking an entire day of wine touring or prefer a more luxurious atmosphere, this may feel a bit casual. Also, if you are pregnant or under 18, it’s not suitable.

Final Thoughts

This Bordeaux blind tasting combines educational insights, authentic local flavors, and a friendly atmosphere to create a memorable one-hour experience for any wine enthusiast. The focus on small producers and natural wines offers a refreshing alternative to larger wine tastings, making it a genuine way to connect with Bordeaux’s terroir.

You’ll love the approachable style of your guide, the quality of the wines and cheeses, and the chance to learn practical tips about wine and food pairings. It’s a great value, especially if you’re looking for an activity that’s both fun and enriching without breaking the bank.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy interactive learning, are open to blind tastings, and want to experience Bordeaux’s local wine culture in a welcoming environment. It’s perfect for a quick, engaging break during your Bordeaux visit, especially if you want to expand your wine knowledge and taste some delightful local products.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-English speakers?
Yes, the tour is available in both French and English, so you can choose the language that suits you best.

How long does the experience last?
It lasts approximately 1 hour, making it a quick but meaningful activity.

What wines are tasted during the tour?
You’ll sample one white, two reds, and one sweet wine, all Bordeaux natural wines.

Are the wines organic or locally made?
Yes, all wines are 100% local, organic, and made by small family chateaux.

What food is included?
A cheese platter with 3 types of cheese and 2 types of dry meat are included to pair with the wines.

Is there any age restriction?
Yes, the activity is not suitable for children under 18 or pregnant women.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance. You can also reserve now and pay later.

Is it accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

Do I need prior wine knowledge to enjoy this?
Not at all. The experience is designed to be educational and approachable for all levels.

Where does the tour meet?
In front of the Saint Michel Church, a lively landmark in Bordeaux.

This experience offers a well-balanced mix of education, authentic tasting, and local flavor, making it a worthwhile choice for travelers looking to deepen their Bordeaux adventure. Whether you’re a wine novice or a seasoned enthusiast, you’ll leave with a better appreciation for Bordeaux’s natural wines and their unique stories.

You can check availability for your dates here: