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The Classic Vineyard Distillery Tour and Tasting Experience in Jersey offers a fantastic introduction to La Mare Wine Estate, priced at $153 and lasting around one hour. Located in the Channel Islands, this private tour provides an intimate look into Jersey’s only working vineyard and distillery, making it an ideal choice for wine and spirit enthusiasts alike. The tour includes a guided walk through the estate’s impressive facilities, tastings of award-winning wines, and a behind-the-scenes look at the Cognac-style distillery.
What sets this experience apart is the comprehensive nature of the tour, including visits to the winery, distillery, chocolate kitchen, and food production areas. It’s suitable for adults and children, with children under 10 going free and older children receiving apple juice and activity packs. The knowledgeable guides make every part of the journey engaging, and reviews consistently highlight the warm atmosphere and high-quality tastings. While the focus is on the estate’s drinks and chocolates, visitors should be aware that alcohol is only served to those 18 years and older.
Key Points
- One-hour private tour of La Mare Wine Estate, including tastings of wine, cider, and Jersey Cream Liqueur
- Includes behind-the-scenes access to the winery, distillery, and chocolate kitchen
- Tastings feature red, rose, and white wines, plus Branchage cider and Prestige Cider
- Children under 10 go free, with non-alcoholic drinks and activity packs for older kids
- Guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach
- Price is $153, offering a well-rounded experience in Jersey’s scenic setting
Explore La Mare Wine Estate in Jersey
This tour kicks off at the La Mare Wine Estate, situated at La Rue de la Hougue Mauger, St Mary, Jersey. It is designed as a private experience, meaning only your group participates, and it offers an informative, relaxed pace. Upon arrival, you are welcomed with a sample of Branchage cider and an introduction to the estate’s history, all set against the estate’s beautiful vineyard views.
The guided walk takes you through the vineyard, where you learn how Jersey vines grow throughout the year. Inside the winery, the guide explains the winemaking process and guides you through tasting three different wines—a white, a rose, and an award-winning red—each with distinct characteristics that suit different palates.
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Tasting of the Estate’s Award-Winning Wines and Ciders
One of the highlights of this experience is the opportunity to sample several of La Mare’s drinks. You will taste the prestige sparkling dry cider, a fine cider made using traditional methods, and a flight of wines including red, rose, and white varieties. The guide discusses the grape varieties used and the winemaking techniques, making each sip more meaningful.
Additional tastings include Branchage cider, Jersey Cream Liqueur, and Fudge and Jersey Chocolate Squares, which are served as snacks during the tour. The estate’s chocolate kitchen offers homemade chocolates and fudge, providing a sweet contrast to the drinks.
Behind-the-Scenes of the Jersey Spirit Crafting Process
The tour continues at the estate’s authentic distillery, where all spirits are crafted. Visitors see the Alembic Charentais Cognac still, a key piece of equipment used to produce the estate’s Jersey Cream Liqueur. The guide explains the distillation process, giving insight into how Jersey’s spirits are made with care and tradition.
At this part of the tour, visitors are invited to taste the Jersey Cream Liqueur, which is a signature product of the estate. Additional samples include Fudge, Jersey Black Butter, and chocolate, which visitors can enjoy while learning about the estate’s food production.
The Chocolate, Fudge, and Jersey Black Butter Experience
La Mare’s chocolate kitchen is a major feature of the tour. Visitors get to see how homemade chocolates and fudge are produced, and the tasting session at the end offers samples of these treats. The estate’s Jersey Black Butter, a local delicacy, is also available for tasting, adding another layer of local flavor to the experience.
The estate emphasizes local products, allowing visitors to purchase fudge, chocolates, and Black Butter directly from the shop. This makes for a convenient opportunity to take home a taste of Jersey after the tour.
The Role of Guides and Their Approach
The guides are frequently praised for their knowledgeable and approachable manner. Names like Helen, Carol, Bob, and John appear in reviews, each noted for their enthusiasm, clarity, and friendliness. The guides successfully create a relaxed environment where questions are encouraged, and the storytelling adds depth to the experience.
Several reviews mention the video presentations that accompany the tour, providing additional context and making the experience more engaging, especially for those with hearing difficulties.
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Timing, Group Size, and Accessibility
The one-hour duration makes this tour an excellent option for those looking for a short, informative activity. It departs from the estate’s meeting point in St Mary and is designed as a private experience, so group sizes are limited, contributing to a personalized atmosphere.
The tour is accessible to most travelers, with near public transport options, and service animals are allowed. It is suitable for most ages, with children under 10 going free and older children receiving apple juice and activity packs.
Practical Details and Booking Flexibility
The experience costs $153, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing peace of mind for travelers. The tour includes a guide, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, and snacks, though alcohol is only served to those 18 and over.
Booking is straightforward, with confirmation received at the time of booking, making it easy to plan your Jersey visit.
What Guests Say About the Tour
Reviews consistently highlight the knowledge and friendliness of the guides, especially Helen, Carol, Bob, and John. Visitors appreciate the relaxed pace, the quality of the wine and cider tastings, and the delicious chocolates. Many mention that the information is well-presented, and the views of the vineyards contribute to a memorable atmosphere.
Some reviews note that the tasting sessions are well-paced, with decent-sized samples. The shop is praised for its selection of local products, and the chocolate kitchen adds an extra treat to the experience.
A few reviews mention that the wine tasting could be more atmospheric, as it often takes place in a function hall, but overall, the enthusiasm of the guide and the quality of the products overshadow this minor point.
The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Jersey Experience
The Classic Vineyard Distillery Tour and Tasting at La Mare offers a comprehensive look at Jersey’s only working vineyard and distillery within a one-hour private setting. It combines engaging storytelling, hands-on tastings of wine, cider, and spirits, and delicious local chocolates.
This tour is especially suited for adults interested in wine, spirits, and local food products, but children are warmly welcomed with non-alcoholic options. The knowledgeable guides and beautiful estate make it a worthwhile visit for those seeking an authentic taste of Jersey.
While the tastings in a function hall might lack some atmosphere, the quality of the products, the friendly guides, and the scenic surroundings ensure a memorable experience. It’s an excellent choice for a short, relaxed, and informative activity in Jersey.
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Classic Vineyard Distillery Tour and Tasting Experience in Jersey
“Great, informative tour, tastings of cider, rose, white and red wine. Also a little tour around the chocolate and biscuit department , at the end t…”
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children under 10 go free, and older children receive apple juice, activity packs, and treats.
How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately one hour.
What is included in the price?
The tour includes a guide, tastings of wine, cider, Jersey Cream Liqueur, and snacks like chocolate, fudge, and Black Butter.
Are alcoholic drinks served to minors?
No, alcoholic drinks are only served to 18 years and older; minors are offered non-alcoholic beverages.
Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.
Where does the tour begin?
It departs from La Mare Wine Estate, located at La Rue de la Hougue Mauger, St Mary.
Is the experience accessible?
Yes, it is suitable for most travelers and is near public transportation options. Service animals are allowed.
What makes this tour stand out?
The behind-the-scenes access, high-quality tastings, and friendly guides make this a top-rated Jersey attraction.
How is the guide’s storytelling style?
Guides are known for their enthusiasm, clarity, and approachability, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.
Is there a shop to buy products?
Yes, the estate has a well-stocked shop with local chocolates, fudge, and Black Butter for purchase.
Can I combine this tour with other activities?
While this tour focuses on the estate’s wines, spirits, and chocolates, it can be easily paired with other Jersey activities for a full day.