Tasting: Sparkling Discovery – A Closer Look
Imagine spending an hour in the heart of Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, sampling some of the region’s finest sparkling wines. For just $18 per person, this one-hour guided tasting at Maison André Delorme offers a chance to explore six different vintages of Crémants de Bourgogne — from the crisp, dry Extra-Brut to the slightly sweeter Demi-Sec, accompanied by a fruit liqueur. It’s a straightforward experience, but one packed with detail, nuance, and a generous splash of regional pride.
We love how this tasting provides a balanced introduction to Burgundy’s sparkling wines, with clear guidance from an expert that brings out the subtle aromas and fine bubbles of each vintage. The variety of styles — from Blanc de Noirs to Blanc de Blancs — means you’ll get a real taste of the diversity within these elegant wines. And including a fruit liqueur pairing adds a delightful, unexpected twist that makes this experience stand out.
One potential consideration is that the duration is only one hour, which is enough to taste the wines and learn a bit about each, but not a deep dive into the winemaking process. If you’re looking for a longer, more immersive tour, this might feel a little brief. Still, for those who want a quick, authentic taste of Bourgogne’s sparkling wines, it hits the mark.
This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts curious about Crémants, travelers wanting a flavorful, educational interlude in their Burgundy trip, or anyone who appreciates a well-made sparkling wine with regional character. If you enjoy guided tastings and regional specialties, this tour suits you perfectly.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Region and Producer: Hosted by Maison André Delorme, a producer with expertise since 1942.
- Diverse Vintages: Tasting six different Crémants de Bourgogne, from Extra-Brut to Demi-Sec.
- Expert Guidance: Personalized welcome and guidance from a knowledgeable host.
- Authentic Flavors: Experience the subtle aromas and finest bubbles of Burgundy’s signature sparkling wines.
- Additional Pairing: Includes a fruit liqueur for a touch of sweetness and complexity.
- Price and Duration: At $18 per person for 1 hour, it offers good value for an authentic tasting experience.
A Detailed Review of the Sparkling Discovery Tasting
What’s Included and How It Works
This tasting, hosted at Maison André Delorme, is designed to showcase the flagship vintages of their Crémants de Bourgogne range. The producer’s long-standing reputation — since 1942 — speaks to their skill and dedication to quality. For $18 per person, you receive a tasting of six different Crémants, each representing different styles and dosages, from the driest Extra-Brut to the slightly sweeter Demi-Sec.
The session begins with a warm, personalized welcome from your guide, whose expertise ensures you’ll not only taste but also understand what makes each vintage distinctive. The wines are served in a relaxed setting that emphasizes educational enjoyment over formality, making it approachable whether you’re a novice or a seasoned wine lover.
The Tasting Lineup: What You’ll Sample
The lineup includes:
- Crémant de Bourgogne Extra-Brut (White or Rosé, based on preference): Expect a crisp, bone-dry sparkler with subtle fruit aromas.
- Crémant de Bourgogne Blanc Brut: Slightly more rounded, with delicate bubbles and a fresh finish.
- Crémant de Bourgogne Blanc de Noirs Brut: Made from darker grapes, offering a richer aroma and more depth.
- Crémant de Bourgogne Blanc de Blancs Brut: Crafted from white grapes, emphasizing elegance and finesse.
- Prestige Brut or Rosé: The premium vintage, with perhaps a more complex bouquet.
- Demi-Sec or Blanc with Crème de Fruits: For a touch of sweetness and fruitiness, a nice contrast to the drier options.
The Experience Itself
Expect a professional yet friendly atmosphere where your guide explains the difference in dosages, grape varieties, and aging techniques that influence each vintage. The pairing with a fruit liqueur adds a layer of flavor, highlighting the versatility of Bourgogne’s sparkling wines — perfect for pairing with desserts or simply enjoying as an aperitif.
Reviewers have noted that “the wines were elegant with subtle aromas,” and appreciated the guidance in understanding the complexities of each vintage. One said, “We loved the way our host explained the nuances of each glass, making the tasting both fun and educational.”
Practical Details and Considerations
The location at André Delorme is accessible and offers a cozy, intimate setting that promotes learning without feeling rushed. Since the tasting lasts about an hour, it’s an ideal activity to slot into a day of sightseeing without feeling overwhelmed. The tour is wheelchair accessible, and conducted in English, making it convenient for most visitors.
What’s more, the reservation process is flexible: you can reserve now and pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance without penalty. For travelers mindful of their budget, this allows flexibility and peace of mind.
Value and Who It’s For
At $18, this tasting offers good value considering the quality of wines and personalized guidance. You’ll walk away with a better understanding of Burgundy’s sparkling wines, and perhaps even a new appreciation for what goes into creating those fine bubbles.
While some might wish for a longer or more in-depth experience, this tasting’s focused approach makes it perfect for short visits, wine newcomers, or those seeking a quick but authentic introduction to Bourgogne’s sparkling wines.
Final Thoughts
This Sparkling Discovery tour at Maison André Delorme is a neat, budget-friendly way to experience some of Bourgogne’s best Crémants de Bourgogne. It’s ideal for those who want a guided, educational tasting without the fuss of a full-scale winery tour. The chance to taste six vintages allows you to appreciate the range of styles and quality Burgundy produces, all in a cozy, welcoming setting.
The inclusion of a fruit liqueur pairing and the expert guidance make this experience both informative and enjoyable. It’s an excellent choice for wine lovers eager to learn more about sparkling wines or visitors simply looking for a flavorful, authentic taste of Burgundy’s bubbles.
If you’re after a brief, authentic, and reasonably priced wine experience in Burgundy, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s perfect for travelers who value region-specific wines, appreciate expert guidance, and want a memorable tasting without a long commitment.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The guided experience is designed to be approachable, with explanations that help beginners understand what they’re tasting.
Can I choose between a Blanc or Rosé option?
Yes, depending on your preference, the first Crémant served can be either Blanc or Rosé.
How many wines will I taste?
You will taste six different Crémants de Bourgogne, each representing different styles and dosages.
Is the tasting session wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the location is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for visitors with mobility concerns.
What’s included in the price?
The price covers the tasting of six Crémants de Bourgogne, a fruit liqueur pairing, and guidance from an expert host.
Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund with no penalty.
Is this experience family-friendly?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 18 years, as it involves alcohol tasting.
This guided tasting offers a genuine taste of Burgundy’s sparkling wine craftsmanship, perfect for those wanting a focused, affordable, and enjoyable introduction to Crémants de Bourgogne. Whether you’re a wine novice or a seasoned enthusiast, you’ll leave with new insights — and perhaps a new favorite bubbly.
You can check availability for your dates here: