Private half day Burgundy Wine and Food Tour by vintage Defender

A Taste of Burgundy in Mâcon: Private Half-Day Wine and Food Tour by Vintage Defender

If you’re looking for an intimate, personal experience that unravels the flavors and stories of Burgundy’s lesser-known wine region, this private half-day tour in Mâcon might be just what you need. For around $231 per person, you’ll spend roughly four hours exploring white wine vineyards, charming villages, and historic sites, all while riding in a vintage Defender vehicle that adds a touch of adventure.

What we love about this experience is how flexible and personalized it can be—your guide takes pride in customizing the itinerary based on your interests and the time available. Plus, the focus on small producers and authentic regional stories makes this more than just a tasting tour; it’s a genuine journey into Burgundy’s winemaking lifestyle.

One potential consideration is the tour’s pace—if walking up hills or spending time in scenic villages isn’t your thing, you might want to check in advance about the walking component to ensure it matches your comfort level. This tour suits travelers who appreciate handcrafted wines, scenic views, and a relaxed, behind-the-scenes look at local winemaking traditions.

Who benefits most? This experience appeals to curious wine lovers eager to learn about Burgundy’s white wines, those wanting an authentic, less touristy taste of the region, and travelers who enjoy exploring picturesque villages and historic landmarks in a personalized setting.

Key Points

• Personalized experience tailored to your interests with flexible itinerary options
• Authentic visits to small wineries and a local family domain
• Rich storytelling about regional history, including the notable hill of La Roche de Solutre
• High-quality tastings with regional wines, including a notable white wine from Vergisson
• Comfortable transportation in a vintage Defender adds character and ease
• Ideal for wine enthusiasts seeking a genuine, intimate experience

Exploring Burgundy’s Hidden Charms in Mâcon

Burgundy is often associated with its world-famous reds like Pinot Noir and the iconic Côte d’Or. But the southern part of Burgundy, especially around Mâcon and the Mâconnais region, is renowned for its delicious white wines and small-scale, artisan producers. This tour offers a refreshing focus on these lesser-known treasures, along with a taste of regional history and culture.

A major plus is the private nature of the tour, which means we and you get undivided attention and the opportunity to ask questions freely. The cost of $231.36 per person might seem steep, but considering the personalized attention, multiple tastings, and the exclusive visits to family-run wineries, it offers good value—especially when you factor in the memories created and the authentic insights gained.

The tour is designed to be about four hours, making it a perfect addition to a day of exploring Mâcon or nearby areas. The pickup service is a handy touch, saving you the hassle of navigating unfamiliar rural roads, and the mobile tickets add a layer of convenience.

The Itinerary in Depth

Stop 1: Verze — An Introduction with a View and a Tasting

Your journey kicks off in a scenic viewpoint overlooking the vineyards in Verze. Here, your guide shares insights about Burgundy’s wine history, particularly focusing on the white wines of the Bourgogne and Mâconnais regions. The highlight? Opening a bottle from that very vineyard for you to taste—an authentic moment that connects you directly with the land.

This first stop is perfect for setting the tone and gives a tangible sense of terroir. It’s also free of charge, which is a plus for budget-conscious travelers.

Stop 2: Vergisson — A Hidden Village and a Winery

Next, you’ll traverse small country roads to reach the charming village of Vergisson, nestled between two hills. This quiet, unspoiled place embodies traditional Burgundy charm, away from tourist crowds. Here, you’ll visit a local winery and sample a fine white wine, gaining insight into the winemaking process after seeing the vines firsthand.

The walk through the village offers a glimpse into rural life, and the tasting provides a real-life taste of the region’s topography and climate influencing its wines.

Stop 3: La Roche de Solutre — A Historic Hill with a Story

One of the most intriguing stops is La Roche de Solutre, a hill steeped in history. The earliest human traces date back to prehistory, giving the site a prehistoric aura. More recently, it became a symbol of respect for history—famous French President François Mitterrand used to walk up the hill annually to honor the French Resistance of WWII.

If you’re up for it, you can join a gentle 40-minute walk up this hill, enjoying sweeping views and soaking in the history. Otherwise, you can admire the scenery from below. This stop offers an enriching blend of natural beauty and historical significance.

Stop 4: Solutre-Pouilly — The Village with a Druid and Tasting

This well-known village is home to a notorious local character who is said to be a modern-day druid, growing unique regional wines. Your guide will tell you about this fascinating personality and the wines he produces.

The highlight is a professional-led tasting of regional wines, offering a clear view of what makes Burgundy’s white wines distinctive. The variety of wines and expert guidance make this a memorable part of the tour—more than just a sip, it’s a learning experience.

Stop 5: Leynes — Meet the Young Winemakers

Your final stop is at a family-run domain operated by a young couple, representing a new wave of Burgundy winemakers. They produce wines from both the Mâconnais and Beaujolais regions, blending tradition with innovation.

Here, you’ll sample wines that showcase modern techniques and trends, and will hear firsthand about the challenges and opportunities facing small producers today. This stop caps your journey with a taste of contemporary Burgundy, making the experience well-rounded.

Practical Details and What You Can Expect

Transportation in a vintage Defender vehicle adds charm and ease, making the journey comfortable and memorable. The small group size ensures a relaxed atmosphere where questions are encouraged, and the guide can tailor the experience.

The duration of roughly 4 hours keeps the experience lively without feeling rushed. Most stops are about 40-45 minutes, giving ample time to enjoy the wines, explore the villages, and absorb the history.

The price of $231.36 includes multiple tastings, a knowledgeable guide, private transportation, and visits to family wineries—offering good value for an intimate, personalized experience.

From the glowing reviews, we see that guests particularly appreciate the excellent wine selection and the friendly, knowledgeable host—Kevin E. gave it a perfect 5-star rating, calling it an “awesome tour” with “great hostess” and “several wine tastings with snacks.”

Consideration: If you’re not comfortable with moderate walking or hill climbs, it’s worth checking if the tour can accommodate your pace. The walk up La Roche de Solutre is optional but included in the experience.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is perfect for wine lovers who crave an authentic, behind-the-scenes look at Burgundy’s white wines and small producers. It appeals to travelers interested in local stories, history, and scenic villages, rather than tourist-heavy wineries. If you appreciate personalized attention and want to avoid crowds, this private tour checks all the boxes.

It also suits those who enjoy a relaxed pace—the stops are well spaced, and the focus on storytelling makes it more than just a tasting. Families with older children might find it engaging too, especially with the historical walk and scenic views.

The Sum Up

This private half-day Burgundy wine and food tour offers a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, history, and authentic winemaking experiences. The focus on small producers and regional stories makes it stand out from mass-market tours. The vintage Defender adds character and comfort, ensuring your journey is as memorable as the wines you taste.

If you’re seeking an intimate exploration of Burgundy’s white wines, eager to learn from passionate locals, and enjoy relaxed, scenic settings, this tour is a smart choice. The combination of excellent wine, historic sights, and personalized service creates a memorable snapshot of Burgundy’s understated charm.

For those who want to go beyond the typical tourist trail, savor regional delicacies, and connect with local winemakers, this tour provides real value and a genuine taste of Burgundy’s soul.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, with each stop lasting about 40-45 minutes, making it a perfect half-day experience.

Is transportation included?
Yes, you’ll travel in a vintage Defender, which offers both comfort and added character to your journey.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour is flexible and can be adapted to maximize value based on your interests and time constraints, as the guide emphasizes a personalized approach.

Are children allowed?
Children under 18 will only be served non-alcoholic beverages, making it suitable for families with older kids.

What is the price?
It’s $231.36 per person, which includes tastings, guide service, and private transportation—offering good value for an intimate experience.

Is cancellation free?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind in case your plans change.

Embarking on this Burgundy tour means discovering the region’s hidden gems, tasting its best white wines, and gaining stories that you’ll carry long after your trip. It’s a memorable way to connect with local traditions and enjoy the stunning scenery of Mâcon’s countryside—all in a relaxed, friendly setting.