A Taste of Burgundy: From Paris to the Heart of French Winemaking
Spending a day in Burgundy with a knowledgeable guide can transform your understanding of French wines and unveil some of the country’s most cherished vineyards. For $275 per person, this 12-hour tour offers visits to three distinct wineries, tastings of over 10 regional wines, and a charming stop in Chablis. Led by friendly guides like Enzo or Johnny (based on reviews), the experience combines education, authentic tasting, and a glimpse into traditional winemaking that’s perfect for wine lovers and curious travelers alike.
What we really appreciate about this tour is the balanced focus on both big-name regions and family-run wineries with centuries of history. Plus, the chance to taste award-winning Chablis and explore the region’s storied soil and terroir makes it a genuinely immersive experience. A minor consideration is the lengthy travel time—about two hours each way—but the comfort of a small group and expert guides make it manageable and worthwhile.
This trip suits those who want a deep dive into Burgundy wines without the hassle of planning. It’s ideal for visitors with a reasonable level of curiosity about wine, looking for authentic tastings and scenic views. If you value small groups, personalized attention, and a mix of historic and boutique wineries, this tour should be on your list.
This experience made our article of Bourgogne Franche Comte’s 5 Best Tours.
Key Points
- Authentic Experiences: Visit both family-run wineries with centuries of tradition and larger, cellar-rich producers.
- Diverse Tastings: Sample more than 10 wines, including Chablis, reds, whites, and sparkling Crémant.
- Educational Value: Learn about Burgundy’s soil, AOCs, and wine styles from passionate guides.
- Charming Stop in Chablis: Enjoy free time for lunch in this picture-perfect town.
- Comfort & Convenience: Transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle with a small group limit for a more personal experience.
- Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance, or reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility for your travel plans.
A Deep Dive into the Burgundy Day Tour
If wine interests you, we've examined these other wine experiences in Bourgogne Franche Comte
Starting Point and Transportation
The tour begins outside Café La Flamme on 6 Avenue de Wagram in Paris. From there, a comfortable, air-conditioned van whisks you away for approximately two hours to Burgundy. The group size is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a relaxed, intimate atmosphere where guides can tailor the experience and answer your questions. Based on multiple reviews, drivers like Enzo and Olivier earn high praise for their safe and friendly driving, which sets the tone for a smooth day.
The early start and long drive might seem like a lot at first, but it’s one of those sacrifices that pays off when you consider the region’s authenticity and scenic vineyards you’ll see en route.
Domaine Jean-Marc Brocard: First Winery Visit
Your first stop is the renowned Domaine Jean-Marc Brocard, a winery that has earned praise for its well-organized tours and excellent tastings. Here, you’ll explore the vineyards and learn how soil composition influences the flavor profile of Chablis and other whites. The highlight is tasting an award-winning Chablis, a crisp, mineral-driven white that exemplifies the region’s style.
Guests often mention the helpful staff and the opportunity to see the wine production process firsthand, making this a perfect introduction to Burgundy’s white wines. As one review notes, “the staff was friendly and we enjoyed learning about the process and how to taste wine.”
Lunch in Chablis: Free Time and Local Flavors
Next, you’ll stop in the charming town of Chablis, where you can purchase lunch or explore the quaint streets. This free time allows you to soak in the atmosphere—cobbled streets, local shops, and picturesque vineyards surrounding the town. The opportunity to choose your own lunch is appreciated, as some travelers prefer local bistros or picnic-style options, giving a taste of authentic life in Burgundy.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Family-Winery: A 21st-Generation Winemaker
In the afternoon, you visit a family-run winery that has been in operation since 1453. Meeting the current owner, a 21st-generation winemaker, is a highlight for many travelers. You’ll get to taste five of their favorite family wines, which can include reds, whites, or even special bottles. Reviewers commend the personal touch here, with one saying, “Enzo was a great guide, he made the trip fun and informative,” emphasizing the warmth and stories shared.
This visit offers a glimpse into traditional winemaking that has been passed down through generations, adding value beyond just tasting.
While you're exploring Bourgogne Franche Comte, here are other experiences we've looked into
The Sparkling Crémant Producer
The last stop is at Les Caves Bailly Lapierre, known for their sparkling Crémant wines. Here, you’ll tour one of the largest cellars in the region, taste two sparkling wines, and learn about their production methods. Some guests express mixed feelings—while the location is impressive, one review suggests it felt more commercial than interactive, with an emphasis on sales. Still, the quality of the sparkling wines is often praised.
Return to Paris
After a full day of wine and scenic views, the van departs around 4:30 pm to head back to Paris, arriving around 8:00 pm, depending on traffic. The journey home provides time to reflect on the day’s highlights and perhaps plan your next French wine adventure.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out?
Knowledgeable Guides and Personal Touches
The reviews consistently applaud the guides—whether Enzo, Johnny, or Olivier—for their expertise, friendliness, and engaging storytelling. Their ability to explain the nuances of Burgundy wines, terroir, and history makes the experience accessible and memorable, especially for those new to wine tasting.
Authentic Visits and Diverse Wines
Unlike generic tours, this one includes visits to both family wineries and larger cellar spaces, giving a genuine sense of Burgundy’s diverse wine culture. The opportunity to taste over 10 different wines, including Chablis, reds, whites, and sparkling wines, offers a comprehensive taste of what the region produces.
Scenic and Cultural Highlights
The stop in Chablis is more than just a lunch break; it’s a chance to stroll among picturesque streets, local shops, and vineyards. Many reviewers mention how the views and small-town charm add a special dimension to the day.
Considerations for Travelers
While the tour offers great value, keep in mind the long travel time—around four hours of driving—though this is offset by the scenery and the quality of wineries visited. The limited group size enhances interaction but might feel a bit tight if you’re used to more private experiences. Food is not included, so planning ahead for lunch is recommended (though there’s ample free time to eat in Chablis). If you’re a serious wine connoisseur, the tasting selections and winery visits will mostly meet your expectations, but remember that some reviews mention the last stop felt a bit more commercial.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This tour is ideal for wine enthusiasts eager to learn about Burgundy, visitors who appreciate a small-group setting, and those who want a full, authentic day exploring both historic and family-run vineyards. It’s also perfect if you’re curious about Chablis and love picturesque towns. However, travelers seeking a more casual, leisure day or those with limited mobility might find the lengthy drive challenging.
FAQ
How long is the total tour?
The entire day lasts around 12 hours, including travel, visits, tasting, and free time in Chablis.
Where do we meet?
The tour starts outside Café La Flamme at 6 Avenue de Wagram in Paris.
Is food included?
No, lunch is not included, but you will have free time in Chablis to find a place to eat.
How many wineries will we visit?
You will visit three wineries: a renowned producer, a family-run vineyard, and a sparkling Crémant cellar.
What wines can I expect to taste?
Over 10 wines, including Chablis, reds, whites, and sparkling Crémant.
What is the group size?
Limited to 8 participants for a more personal experience.
Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, guides are knowledgeable and explain wine styles and terroir, making it suitable for beginners and semi-professional drinkers.
What is the price?
$275 per person, which offers good value given the multiple wineries, tastings, and scenic stops.
To sum it up, this Burgundy winery tour from Paris offers a well-rounded day of tasting, learning, and sightseeing. It’s perfect for those wanting a genuine, small-group experience that combines history, authentic wine, and charming towns. If you love discovering regional wines with knowledgeable guides in scenic settings, this trip is a solid choice—especially if you value quality over quantity and appreciate an intimate, authentic look at Burgundy’s wine culture.
You can check availability for your dates here: