If you’re looking to experience Burgundy’s renowned wine culture without the fuss of large tour groups, this 80-minute visit and tasting at Domaine Clotilde Davenne in Préhy offers a charming and educational snapshot of the region’s viniculture. For just $21 per person, you’ll explore the vineyards at the foot of the estate, learn about the unique terroir that gives Burgundy wines their character, and sample some outstanding wines crafted on site. Led by a passionate oenologist and winemaker, Clotilde Davenne, this experience aims to turn casual drinkers into curious connoisseurs.
What we love about this tour is the personal touch—the fact that it takes place in a small, authentic setting—alongside the chance to understand how a small, female-led domaine crafts their wines with care. The explanations about the terroir and the discovery of different vintages help deepen your appreciation. Plus, the opportunity to taste wines from three key Burgundy villages—Chablis, Saint-Bris, and Irancy—means you leave with a broader understanding of regional variety.
A potential drawback is the short duration—at just 80 minutes, this tour is more of a taste of Burgundy than an in-depth exploration. If you’re looking for a comprehensive vineyard tour with production details beyond stainless steel vats, this might feel a little limited. However, the intimate atmosphere and friendly guide help compensate for this, making it ideal for those who prefer quality over quantity.
This experience suits travelers who are interested in small-scale, authentic wine production, and who appreciate a relaxed, friendly environment. It’s particularly appealing for those wanting a taste of Burgundy’s landscape and wines without the crowds or high prices often associated with larger wineries.
This experience made our article of 9 Best Tours In Auxerre.
Key Points
- Authentic Experience: Small-group visit emphasizes a personal connection with the winemaker.
- Regional Focus: Wines from Chablis, Saint-Bris, and Irancy showcase Burgundy’s diversity.
- Educational: Explanations about terroir and vintage history deepen your understanding.
- Value for Money: For $21, you receive a tasting and vineyard insights that are quite enriching.
- Accessible: The tour is wheelchair friendly and suitable for most adults.
- Limited in Scope: With only 80 minutes, it’s more of a tasting and overview than a full production tour.
What You Can Expect from the Tour
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Visiting the Vineyards in Préhy
The experience begins with a walk through the vineyards at the foot of the estate. We found this part especially charming because the guide, possibly Clotilde herself, shares her knowledge about the terroir—the combination of soil, climate, and landscape that influences the grapes. You’ll learn how Burgundy’s small plots and varied grape varieties contribute to the complexity of the wines. The setting is typically Burgundian—quaint, peaceful, and filled with lush vines—making it a perfect backdrop for wine education.
Explanation of the Terroir and Historical Context
What sets this tour apart is its focus on terroir and vintage development. We liked how the guide connected the landscape to the taste of the wine, explaining how different climates and soil compositions impact flavor profiles. The history of the estate and its dedication to quality also come through in these explanations, helping us appreciate the craftsmanship behind each bottle.
Discovery of the Vintage and Wine Tasting
After the vineyard walk, you’ll move to the tasting area where the real fun begins. Clotilde and her team present a selection of wines from their production. The tasting includes your choice of wines from Chablis, Saint-Bris, and Irancy, which gives a nice regional cross-section. The tasting glasses are included, making it easy to sample and compare.
One reviewer appreciated the informative nature of the tasting, especially regarding the terroir rather than production specifics. Another pointed out that the production process is only visible in stainless steel vats, so if you’re hoping to see a full winery tour, you might find this somewhat limited.
More Great Tours NearbyAtmosphere and Group Size
The intimate setting—small groups and friendly hosts—creates a comfortable environment for questions and relaxed conversation. We enjoyed the authenticity of the experience, feeling like we were visiting a local family’s domaine rather than a commercial enterprise. This sense of genuine craftsmanship is what makes the tour memorable.
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The Experience in Detail: Why It Works
The Personal Touch
The guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge shine through. As one review notes, “Guide très sympathique,” which goes a long way in making the visit enjoyable. The small-group format—often fewer than 10 people—means you get more personalized attention and can ask questions freely.
The Focus on Terroir
Many travelers find the explanations about terroir and vintage particularly valuable. It transforms the tasting from a simple sip to a learning experience, enriching your appreciation for Burgundy wines. We loved the way the guide connected the landscape’s history to the flavors in the glass.
The Wines
Although the tasting is brief, the selection offers a well-rounded view of Burgundy’s diversity. From crisp Chablis to the more robust Irancy reds, you get to sample the regional variety. The prices of these wines are reasonable, especially given the quality and the educational context.
Authenticity and Location
The setting in Préhy is very much Burgundy countryside, away from commercialized wineries. This authenticity is what makes the experience stand out—an ideal choice for travelers seeking genuine local culture.
Practical Details and Tips
Duration and Schedule
At 80 minutes, this is a compact, well-paced experience. Check availability early, especially during peak seasons or harvest time when the vineyard might be busier. Arrive 5 minutes early to settle in and avoid missing the start.
Price and Value
For $21 per person, the experience is quite affordable—especially considering the personalized attention and educational content. It’s a great way to enhance your understanding of Burgundy wine without breaking the bank.
Accessibility
The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for a broader audience. Just remember to bring water with you, as it’s not provided on-site.
Booking and Cancellation
Reservations can be made with the option to pay later, offering flexibility. Cancellations are possible up to 24 hours in advance, giving peace of mind if your plans change.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for wine enthusiasts eager to learn about Burgundy’s terroir in a relaxed setting. It’s ideal for those who prefer small, friendly groups and want a more authentic connection with local producers. It’s also suitable for travelers who value educational moments and enjoy tasting a variety of regional wines without the distraction of large crowds.
However, if you’re seeking an in-depth winemaking process tour or want to see full production facilities, this may not fully satisfy your curiosity. The focus here is more on vintage, terroir, and tasting than on the technical aspects of wine production.
Final Thoughts
For $21, this tour offers much more than just a tasting. It’s a personal, authentic glimpse into Burgundy’s landscape and wine craftsmanship, guided by a passionate professional. The setting is beautiful, and the focus on terroir makes the experience both educational and enjoyable. It’s a wonderful choice for casual wine lovers, curious travelers, and those wanting a taste of local Burgundy without the crowds or high prices.
If you’re in the region and want to understand what makes Burgundy wines special—beyond just drinking them—this is a friendly, well-organized way to do so. Just remember, it’s a brief overview, but one packed with quality and authenticity.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
No, children under 18 are not eligible for this experience, as it involves wine tasting and adult-oriented content.
How long is the tour?
The experience lasts about 80 minutes, including vineyard visits and tasting.
Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it possible for most visitors to participate.
Do I need to bring anything?
It’s recommended to bring water, especially if you plan to taste multiple wines and stay hydrated.
Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
What languages are available?
The tour is conducted in French.
Are the wines included in the price?
Yes, the tasting is included, and you can choose wines from the estate’s range.
Are the vineyard and production areas open to see?
The vineyard walk is included, but the production area mainly involves stainless steel vats, not full winery tours.
What makes this experience different from other wine tours?
Its small-group, authentic setting and focus on terroir and regional diversity provide a more personal and educational experience than larger, commercial tours.
Whether you’re savoring Burgundy’s famous Chablis or exploring the lesser-known Irancy, this tour offers a delightful gateway into the region’s wine culture—perfect for a relaxed, authentic, and educational visit.
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