Bordeaux Super Saver Wine Tasting class and St Emilion region

Discover Bordeaux’s Best with the Super Saver Wine Tour

This full-day Bordeaux experience combines a morning wine tasting class with visits to prestigious wineries in St. Emilion, all for a reasonable price of around $173.27 per person. Starting at 10:30 am, you’ll spend roughly 7.5 hours exploring France’s legendary wine regions, sampling at least 11 wines, and learning from expert guides. The tour is limited to just eight travelers, making for an intimate, personalized experience that helps you truly connect with the wine and the scenery.

What we particularly love about this tour are two key details: first, the hands-on tasting class in Bordeaux city center, offering insights into French wine styles beyond just drinking; second, the vintage vineyard visits in St. Emilion, a UNESCO-listed village filled with history and charm. However, a consideration for some travelers might be the transportation time—a significant part of the day is spent in the minivan traveling between stops. Still, for those eager to sample multiple regions in one day, this setup works well.

This tour suits wine enthusiasts eager to deepen their understanding of French wines, history buffs interested in the storied landscape of St. Emilion, or anyone who loves a relaxed yet informative day with good food and excellent company.

Key Points

• Expert-guided experience with knowledgeable, friendly guides like Quentin, Rémi, and Dorian.
• Two-in-one tour—a morning wine class and afternoon visits to two renowned châteaux in St. Emilion.
• Sample at least 11 wines paired with bread, cheese, and cured meats, providing a balanced tasting experience.
• Small-group setting with a maximum of 8 travelers, fostering a more personal and engaging environment.
• Beautiful scenery and historic villages—St. Emilion’s UNESCO-listed charm is a highlight.
• Good value for money, with varied activities, food, and wine tasting included in the price.

An In-Depth Look at the Bordeaux Super Saver Experience

This tour is a thoughtful way to experience Bordeaux’s wine culture without feeling overwhelmed or rushed. It’s designed for those who want a rundown of French wine regions, with enough time to savor the wines and enjoy the scenery.

What’s Included and How It Works

For around $173, you get local guides, two wine tasting sessions, a guided winery tour, lunch, and transportation via minivan. The small group size (limited to 8 people) ensures your guide can give personalized attention, answer questions, and tailor the experience a bit.

Morning: Bordeaux Wine Tasting Class

Starting at 3 Rue d’Enghien, the tour kicks off with a 2-hour tasting session inside a cozy wine room in Bordeaux city center. Here, you’ll sample wines from regions like Côtes du Rhône, Burgundy, and the Loire Valley, pairing each sip with bread, cheese, and cured meats. This is a real treat for those keen to learn about wine styles and tasting techniques. Reviewers often mention how informative and engaging this part is, with guides like Rémi and Isabelle bringing the flavors to life.

Following the tasting, a lunch at a traditional apartment in Bordeaux’s city center offers a casual chance to relax and reflect on the morning’s lessons. Many reviews highlight the quality of the food—generous sandwiches, local cheeses, and a friendly atmosphere.

Afternoon: Vineyard Tours and the Charm of St. Emilion

Post-lunch, the group heads out of Bordeaux in a comfortable minivan to St. Emilion, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its scenic vineyards and medieval architecture. The village tour offers about an hour of wandering cobbled streets, exploring charming shops, and soaking in the stunning views.

The main event is the visit to two classic châteaux. The first provides a guided tour of the vineyards, revealing how wines are made and showcasing the stunning landscape. The second is a wine tasting at a Château Growed Classified, where you’ll sample 3 or 4 wines directly from the barrels or bottles, giving an authentic taste of high-quality Bordeaux. Several reviewers comment on how the guides make the experience educational and enjoyable, often tying in history and regional specifics.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

One of the best aspects is the blend of learning and tasting—you’re not just drinking wine but understanding what makes Bordeaux wines unique. Guides like Quentin and Dorian are praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor, making complex topics approachable and fun.

The scenery in St. Emilion is another highlight—vineyards stretching across rolling hills, medieval architecture, and a village that looks like it belongs in a fairytale. Many visitors, including Jesse and Donal, remark that the day feels well-balanced between educational moments and leisurely exploration.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

The main concern voiced by some is travel time—a significant chunk of the day goes into getting between Bordeaux and St. Emilion. While this allows for multiple stops, it might be tiring if you’re not used to long days on the road. Plus, the lunch is described as simple—sandwiches and light fare—which some might wish was more substantial, especially after a morning of tasting and sightseeing.

Another point to consider is that the tour does not include hotel pickup, so you’ll need to meet at the starting point or arrange your own transport. This isn’t necessarily a downside but something to plan for.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a wine lover eager to see and taste some of the best Bordeaux has to offer, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s ideal for first-timers wanting an overview but also for those who appreciate small-group intimacy and guided explanations. The combination of wine education, scenic village exploration, and premium tastings makes it a well-rounded experience.

Final Thoughts

This Bordeaux Super Saver tour offers great value for those wanting a comprehensive, engaging wine experience in just one day. The blend of a hands-on tasting class and visits to historic wineries combines education, scenery, and indulgence in a way that feels authentic and fun.

The small-group size and knowledgeable guides make a big difference, turning what could be a rushed tour into a memorable journey into France’s wine heartland. The scenic charm of St. Emilion alone makes this worthwhile, while the tasting sessions deepen your appreciation for Bordeaux wines.

While the transportation time might be a consideration for some, most find it worth it for the variety and quality of the experience. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned wine enthusiast, this tour provides a solid foundation and a delightful day out.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
The tour involves tasting wines, and the legal drinking age is 18. If you prefer not to drink, you can still enjoy the scenery, learning, and food, but the core experience is centered on wine tasting.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to eight travelers, offering a more personal and engaging experience.

Are meals included?
Yes, you will have lunch at a local apartment in Bordeaux, with bread, cheese, and cured meats included.

How many wines will I taste?
Throughout the day, you’ll sample at least 11 wines, including those in the tasting sessions and during winery visits.

What regions are covered?
You’ll taste wines from famous regions like Côtes du Rhône, Burgundy, and the Loire Valley, along with Bordeaux.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, transport between Bordeaux, St. Emilion, and the wineries is included via minivan.

Does the tour operate year-round?
The tour is bookable most of the year, but always check for availability or seasonal closures.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start, receiving a full refund.

Are guides knowledgeable about the region and wines?
Absolutely. The reviews highlight guides like Quentin, Rémi, and Dorian as friendly, knowledgeable, and engaging.

In essence, this tour offers a balanced, educational, and scenic way to spend a day in Bordeaux. Whether you’re just starting your wine journey or looking to deepen your appreciation, it’s a well-organized experience that captures the spirit of Bordeaux’s wine country.