Experience the Soul of a South French Winery: In the skin of a winemaker
If you’re looking to understand what truly goes into making wine and enjoy a memorable taste of the South of France, this tour offers a compelling mix. For $76 per person, you’ll spend about three hours exploring l’Enclos de la Croix, a family-run organic winery, with a friendly guide—perhaps the winemaker himself or a member of his team. The experience combines hands-on vineyard exploration, an insider’s look into organic winemaking, and a delicious farm-to-table meal featuring estate-grown produce.
What we love about this experience is the genuine focus on organic principles—you get a clear sense that sustainability and biodiversity are genuinely valued here. The chance to see sheep, horses, and over 50 bird and insect species thriving in a natural refuge adds a wonderful ecological dimension. Plus, the tasting of estate wines paired with a seasonal meal makes this more than just a typical winery visit.
A potential consideration might be the seasonal variation in the produce and the fact that, being a smaller, more intimate experience, it may not suit travelers craving a large-group vibe or a more commercial setting. Still, if you prefer authenticity and a quieter, more meaningful connection to the land, this tour should suit you well.
This tour resonates particularly well with nature lovers, foodies, and those interested in organic and sustainable farming practices. It’s perfect for travelers who want to go beyond just tasting wine—who want to learn, see, and taste how a dedicated organic estate operates.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Organic Focus: Emphasizes sustainable farming and biodiversity.
- Authentic Experience: Guided by the winemaker or team members, offering personal insights.
- Tasting & Food: Samples estate wines and organic dishes prepared with garden and orchard produce.
- Biodiversity & Nature: Tours through vineyards populated with sheep, horses, and a variety of birds and insects.
- Value for Money: At $76, including a full meal and several tastings, it offers good value.
- Accessible & Flexible: Available in both French and English, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
An In-Depth Look at the Experience
Starting Point & Duration
The tour begins at 2 Av. Marius Alès in southern France, a convenient location often accessible from nearby towns. With a duration of three hours, it’s long enough to enjoy a relaxed, immersive experience without feeling rushed. The small group size—though not explicitly stated—likely encourages more personal interaction and tailored commentary from guides.
Vineyard & Biodiversity Tour
As we walk through the vineyards, we loved the way our guide (a friendly fellow, perhaps the winemaker) pointed out the animals helping out on the land—notably the sheep and horses. Their presence isn’t just charming; it’s a practical part of organic farming, helping with weed control and soil management. We appreciated how the estate’s designation as a natural refuge is clearly a priority, which means you’ll see over 50 bird and insect species fluttering or buzzing around.
The tour provides an excellent chance to observe the harmony between agriculture and nature. One guest remarked, “It’s inspiring to see a place that respects biodiversity so passionately.” You’ll leave with a better understanding of how organic vineyards work differently from conventional ones, emphasizing sustainability and ecological balance.
More Great Tours NearbyCellar Visit & Winemaking
Following the vineyard stroll, you’ll step into the cellars for a behind-the-scenes look at the winemaking process. This part of the tour is ideal for those curious about organic wine production—from grape to bottle, with explanations of the methods used to keep the process environmentally friendly. Expect to hear about how the wines are crafted without synthetic chemicals and how that influences flavor.
Tasting & Organic Wines
The highlight for most is, of course, the tasting of estate wines. The wines are described as fine Languedoc varieties, and many reviewers note the distinctive, lively flavors resulting from organic practices. You’ll have the opportunity to compare different types, possibly including reds, whites, and rosés, depending on the season.
Farm-to-Table Meal
After the tastings, sit down with the team for a full meal that showcases the bounty of the estate’s organic kitchen garden and orchard. Dishes might include tomato salad, stuffed zucchini, grilled eggplant, and seasonal desserts like tart or cake with fruit from the estate. It’s a simple but well-prepared meal, designed to complement the wines and highlight local, organic ingredients.
Guests often say, “The food was fresh, flavorful, and a perfect match for the wines.” The inclusion of coffee and a convivial atmosphere makes this a relaxed, satisfying conclusion.
Practicalities & Accessibility
- The tour is offered in both French and English, making it accessible for international visitors.
- Wheelchair accessibility is noted, though it’s wise to confirm ahead if mobility is a concern.
- Flexible reservation options include free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which adds peace of mind when planning your trip.
Why This Tour is a Great Fit
This experience is ideal for those who want more than just a tasting—it’s perfect for curious travelers eager to see the land behind the wine and understand organic farming. If you love nature, sustainability, and authentic food experiences, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s also suitable for families or couples looking for a relaxed, educational outing in the South of France.
However, if your idea of a wine tour involves large bus groups or commercial tasting rooms, this might feel a bit quiet and intimate for you. But for anyone who values genuine connection, ecological principles, and good food, it’s a real find.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
At $76, this tour offers remarkable value. You get a guided vineyard walk, insights into organic winemaking, multiple wine tastings, and a home-cooked organic meal—all in just three hours. The experience promises a deeper understanding of sustainable agriculture paired with the pleasure of tasting local wines and fresh produce.
For travelers who appreciate authenticity over glamour, this is a chance to enjoy a true slice of Provençal life. It’s especially suited for those who want to connect with nature, learn about eco-friendly farming, and enjoy delicious regional food and wine without the crowds or commercial feel.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for non-English speakers?
Yes, the tour is conducted in both French and English, which makes it accessible for most international visitors.
How long is the tour?
The guided experience lasts approximately three hours.
What is included in the price?
You’ll get a guided winery tour, tastings of estate wines, seasonal estate fruit, and a full organic meal with drinks.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts.
Is the experience wheelchair accessible?
Yes, some parts of the tour are wheelchair accessible, but it’s recommended to confirm specific needs in advance.
What kind of wines will I taste?
Expect to sample fine Languedoc wines made with organic practices, likely including reds, whites, and rosés, depending on the season.
Do I need to bring anything special?
Just your curiosity and perhaps a light notebook if you want to remember the details. Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking through the vineyards.
This tour offers a genuine, flavorful taste of France’s organic wine scene, all wrapped in a friendly, educational package. It’s a wonderful choice for those wanting to see the land behind the wine and enjoy a delicious, authentic meal in the process.
You can check availability for your dates here: