Private Beaujolais wine tour

A Closer Look at the Private Beaujolais Wine Tour

Imagine spending a day exploring the scenic Beaujolais region just outside Lyon, where rolling hills meet vine-covered slopes and centuries-old traditions blend with modern winemaking. This private tour, priced at about $1,187 per person, lasts roughly 8 to 9 hours and takes you through two carefully selected wineries—one practicing biodynamic farming, the other preserving more traditional methods. Led by a knowledgeable guide who is also a certified wine expert, you’ll get an intimate glimpse into the fascinating world of Gamay and Beaujolais wines.

What we really love about this experience is how it balances education and enjoyment. First, the visits are thoughtfully curated: meeting passionate small-scale winemakers in authentic settings, coupled with tasting wines that span from the 20th century to the present day. Second, the highlight is undoubtedly the picnic at a breathtaking viewpoint, where you’ll sample vintage wines alongside cheeses and seasonal delicacies—an authentic taste of French conviviality.

A potential consideration is the price point; at over a thousand dollars, this is an investment, but one that delivers in quality, intimacy, and depth of experience. The tour is best suited for wine enthusiasts eager to learn about regional terroirs, small producers, and the evolution of Beaujolais wines. If you appreciate personalized service and meaningful tastings, this tour is worth every euro.

Key Points

• Private and Personalized: Only your group participates, ensuring a tailored, intimate experience.
• Expert Guidance: Led by a WSET3 graduate, the guide offers in-depth insights into French wines and regional nuances.
• Authentic Visits: Tours include two small, biodynamic and traditional wineries, showcasing different winemaking philosophies.
• Culinary Experience: A scenic picnic with vintage wines, cheeses, and seasonal regional products makes for a memorable highlight.
• Luxurious Transport: Travel in a Tesla or Mercedes, providing comfort and style, with pickup from your Lyon hotel.
• Flexible & Booked in Advance: On average booked 48 days ahead, the tour offers a reliable, well-organized day out.

A Detailed Exploration of the Beaujolais Private Tour

Starting the Day: Smooth Pickup and Comfort

Your day begins around 9:00 am with a hotel pickup, typically in a sleek Tesla or Mercedes, depending on your group size. This private transport sets a luxurious tone and eliminates the stress of navigating public transit or crowded groups. The driver, a professional chauffeur, will whisk you out of Lyon’s busy streets and into the rolling landscapes of Beaujolais—an area recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its unique terroirs.

First Stop: Fleurie and the Biodynamic Estate

Your first visit is to Fleurie, one of the ten regional crus of Beaujolais, in a winery dedicated to biodynamic and natural wine practices. Here, you’ll meet passionate small-scale producers who emphasize sustainable farming and minimal intervention, offering an authentic perspective on contemporary winemaking.

Expect to spend around an hour exploring the vines and winery, learning about their history and methods. You’ll taste approximately six wines, including an old vintage, which adds a layer of historical depth. A reviewer highlights that the winery is in the “heart of the crus,” meaning you get a real taste of the local terroir—something that elevates wine appreciation beyond just flavors.

Second Stop: Villie-Morgon and Traditional Techniques

Next, you’ll visit a more traditional winery in Villie-Morgon, where the focus remains on preserving winemaking techniques from the 1970s and 1980s. This contrast offers a fascinating comparison: seeing how successive generations have approached the same land.

Here, too, expect to taste around six wines, including vintage selections from the past, giving insight into how Gamay wines have evolved—or stayed the same—over decades. One satisfied guest remarked, “Hugo was a perfect guide,” emphasizing the value of knowledgeable hosts who can deepen your understanding of regional differences.

Scenic Break at Mont Brouilly

After the cellar visits, you’ll head to Mont Brouilly, a viewpoint atop a mountain producing Côte-de-Brouilly and Brouilly wines. This stop is more than just a photo op; it offers a chance to understand why Beaujolais’s terroirs are considered UNESCO-worthy. The panoramic views of vineyards stretching to the horizon help contextualize the wines you’ll taste later—clear evidence of how soil, climate, and altitude influence flavor profiles.

Lunch with a View: Gourmet Picnic in the Hills

The tour’s culinary centerpiece is a three-hour picnic in the hills of Beaujolais. This is no ordinary lunch—it’s a carefully curated experience that pairs vintage wines from the 1960s onwards with a dozen cheeses and seasonal gourmet products. The setting, high above the vineyards, is a perfect backdrop for appreciating the region’s culinary and viticultural heritage.

Guests frequently mention the delicious food, with one reviewer calling it a “lovely day of great wine from smaller wine makers and a delicious lunch.” It’s a chance to relax, enjoy the company, and savor the flavors that define this part of France. The wines are carefully selected to explore the Gamay grape through time, illustrating the evolution of style and technique.

Final Tasting and Return to Lyon

After lunch, you’ll enjoy a final tasting session with the guide, who is also a WSET3 graduate. This adds a layer of expertise—expect insights into French wine characteristics and regional differences. The tour wraps up before returning to Lyon, typically around 6:00 pm, with time to reflect on the day’s discoveries.

Why This Tour Stands Out

This private experience offers several advantages over larger, more generic tours. The small, intimate group fosters genuine conversations and personalized attention. The expert guidance from Hugo, who is both a guide and wine professional, enriches the experience with detailed knowledge. The variety of winery styles—biodynamic and traditional—provides a well-rounded understanding of Beaujolais winemaking.

The culinary component is a true highlight, allowing you to see how regional products complement local wines. The scenic stops and luxurious transportation elevate the whole day into a seamless blend of education, relaxation, and indulgence.

Possible Drawbacks

The price could be a barrier for some, but the inclusions—private transport, expert guiding, multiple tastings, and a gourmet picnic—justify the cost for those seeking an authentic, in-depth exploration. Be aware that the tour is around 8 to 9 hours long, so it’s best suited for travelers with a full day available and a fondness for wine and scenic landscapes.

Who is this tour best suited for?

If you’re someone who appreciates small wineries, regional terroirs, and vintage wines, you’ll thrive here. It’s perfect for wine lovers eager to learn, foodies wanting gourmet experiences, and luxury travelers looking for a private, tailored day outside the city. The emphasis on authenticity and expert guidance makes it a memorable way to deepen your understanding of French wine.

Final Thoughts

This private Beaujolais wine tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience that balances educational depth with relaxing enjoyment. The visits to different wineries reveal the diversity within the region, from biodynamic vineyards to traditional cellars, giving you a nuanced picture of Beaujolais wine culture. The scenic picnic with vintage wines and regional delicacies adds a special touch that captures the spirit of French conviviality.

While the price may seem steep, the combination of personalized service, expert guidance, and authentic experiences makes this tour a worthwhile investment for serious wine aficionados or those celebrating a special occasion. It’s a chance to step into the world of Gamay and discover how history, land, and passion come together in each glass.

If you value small-group interactions, expert insights, and authentic regional charm, this private tour from Lyon is a smart choice. It’s a day that promises not just wine tasting but a deeper appreciation of Beaujolais’s unique character and French wine-making traditions.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, including visits, lunch, and scenic stops.

What is the price per person?
It’s around $1,186.83 per person, which includes private transportation, guided tastings, and the gourmet picnic.

What kind of transportation is provided?
Travel is in a Tesla or Mercedes Class E for couples, or a Mercedes Class V Van for groups of three or more, ensuring comfort throughout the day.

Are the wine tastings included?
Yes, there are multiple tastings at each winery, including vintage wines from the 20th century to now, plus the final tasting session.

Can wines be shipped home?
Yes, wines purchased during the tour can be shipped to your home, adding convenience for travelers wishing to bring a taste of Beaujolais back.

Is this tour suitable for wine novices?
While designed for enthusiasts, the guide’s expertise makes it accessible for all levels; you’ll learn a lot whether you’re just starting or already passionate about wine.

What is the focus of the picnic?
The picnic pairs wines from the 1960s onward with cheeses and seasonal gourmet products, highlighting the region’s culinary and vinicultural heritage.

Is this tour customizable?
As a private experience, it’s tailored to your group, with stops and themes that can suit your interests.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, providing flexibility for your planning.

In all, this private Beaujolais wine tour offers a rare chance to experience small vineyards, vintage wines, and French regional flavors in a luxurious setting. It’s perfect for travelers who want a deep dive into Beaujolais with the comfort and guidance of a seasoned expert—an excellent way to turn a day outside Lyon into an unforgettable journey through France’s wine country.