provence wine tasting

Provence Wine Tasting: An Elegant Day on the French Riviera

This private Provence wine tasting tour from Nice offers a comprehensive exploration of the Côtes de Provence wine region. For $919.22 per group, up to 8 guests enjoy a full-day experience that includes visits to two distinguished wineries, guided tours, tastings, and a traditional Provencal picnic. The 8-hour journey is perfect for wine lovers and those seeking a relaxed, luxurious way to discover the local landscape and viticulture.

The tour is designed to remove all logistical stress, with hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, and a knowledgeable driver-guide. Although the wine tasting experience does include 6 wines across both wineries, the cost of the picnic and entrance fees are paid separately, making this a flexible option for those who appreciate the finer details of wine and regional cuisine.

This tour appeals most to those who value comfort, private experiences, and an insightful look into Provence’s wine heritage. Be aware that the price covers full private group exclusivity, which ensures a more intimate and personalized visit compared to larger group excursions.

Key Points

• Private wine tasting experience from Nice for up to 8 guests
• Includes guided tours at Château de Saint-Martin and Château Sainte Roseline
• Visit two esteemed wineries with tastings of 3 wines each
• Full-day journey lasting approximately 8 hours
• Hotel pickup and drop-off with air-conditioned transport
• Separate costs for entrance fees and picnic (around €80 per person)

From the Château de Saint-Martin to the Château Sainte Roseline

This tour starts in the morning with hotel pickup from your chosen location in the French Riviera, including Nice, Antibes, Cannes, or Monaco for an additional fee. You board a full-option, air-conditioned minibus, and the scenic drive offers views of the Provence countryside as you head towards the first stop.

The journey is smooth and comfortable, setting a relaxed tone for the day ahead. The private nature of the tour guarantees a quiet, personalized atmosphere, perfect for enjoying the stunning landscape and engaging with your guide.

Visiting Château de Saint-Martin: A Historical Winery

The tour’s first major stop is the Château de Saint-Martin, a Cru Classé de Provence with a history dating back to Antiquity. Tour the medieval underground cellar called les Vinoscénies, where centuries of winemaking tradition are on display.

Here, visitors taste 6 different wines. The tasting is accompanied by toasts of tapenades and anchoïades, adding a touch of Provençal flavor. The castle’s gardens or interior rooms serve as the setting for a provencal-style picnic—weather permitting. The picnic offers local specialties but is a separate expense.

Exploring Château Sainte Roseline and Its Millennia-Old Soil

The second winery, Château Sainte Roseline, is located in the Var hinterland, on soil that has been cultivated for centuries. The guided tour can include the chapel, the cloister (availability depending on the day), and the wine cellar.

Guests typically sample 3 wines from Côtes de Provence during this tasting. Like the first stop, the wine tasting is separate from the picnic and entrance fees, which are paid directly to the driver at €90 per person.

The Wine Tastings: A Focus on Quality and Variety

At both wineries, the focus is on small-scale production and quality wines. Each winery offers 3 different wines per visit, giving a well-rounded view of the region’s typical flavors. The tastings are led by an experienced guide and include full explanations about each wine’s characteristics and production process.

Since the cost of tasting and entry is separate, travelers should budget around €80 per person for the full experience, including the two wineries and the picnic if chosen.

The Picnic: A Classic Provencal Delight

The Provencal picnic at Château de Saint-Martin is a highlight for many. It features local specialties, served either in the castle’s garden or inside, depending on weather conditions. The separate expense means that guests can choose whether to indulge in this culinary experience, adding another layer of enjoyment to the day.

The picnic complements the wine tastings perfectly, providing a scenic and relaxing way to savor regional flavors amid beautiful surroundings.

Practical Details: Transportation and Accessibility

The full transportation service in an air-conditioned minibus ensures a comfortable ride. The driver-guide offers live commentary, sharing insights into the Provençal landscape and the wine-making process.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, with a minimum drinking age of 18 years. Accessibility considerations like baby chairs can be arranged for €10, ensuring family-friendly options are available.

Booking, Cancellation, and Additional Costs

Advanced booking is recommended, with most tours booked around 5 days in advance. The full price is $919.22 per group, which includes all transportation, guide services, and tolls. Entrance fees and the picnic are paid separately, with additional charges for pickups from Antibes, Cannes, or Monaco—around €70.

The cancellation policy offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, providing flexibility for changing plans.

The Guide’s Role and Guest Experience

The driver-guide is a key part of the experience, providing live commentary in multiple languages and making the day both informative and enjoyable. As highlighted in reviews, guides like Victor are praised for their kindness, courtesy, and professionalism, contributing to a smooth and engaging journey.

Travelers appreciate the comfortable vehicle and the personalized attention of a private tour, making it a standout choice for those seeking a relaxed, immersive wine adventure.

Ideal Audience for this Provence Wine Tour

This tour is perfect for wine enthusiasts who prefer a private, luxurious experience. It suits those interested in historical wineries, regional cuisine, and scenic drives. The full-day format ensures a leisurely pace, ideal for couples or small groups wanting a more personalized touch.

It is worth noting that the separate costs for entry fees and picnic mean you can customize your experience based on your budget and preferences.

The Sum Up: An Enjoyable and Authentic Provence Wine Day

The Provence wine tasting tour from Nice offers a well-organized, personalized, and scenic way to explore the region’s renowned vineyards. With visits to Château de Saint-Martin and Château Sainte Roseline, guests enjoy guided tours, tastings of six wines, and the chance to savor a Provencal picnic.

While the additional costs for entrance fees and the picnic require some planning, the overall experience is both educational and relaxing, ideal for small groups seeking comfort and authenticity. The knowledgeable guides and beautiful landscape make this a memorable way to spend a day on the French Riviera.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of the tour?
The full transportation, driver-guide, and live commentary are included. The wine tastings (6 wines total) and entrance fees are paid separately, with €80 per person estimated for both wineries and the picnic.

Can I customize the picnic experience?
The picnic is a separate expense and typically includes Provencal specialties. Guests can choose to include it or skip it.

What wineries are visited on this tour?
The Château de Saint-Martin and Château Sainte Roseline are visited, both classified as Cru Classé and known for their quality wines.

Is the tour suitable for families with children?
Yes, baby chairs can be arranged for €10. However, the minimum drinking age is 18 years.

How long does the tour last?
The approximate duration is 8 hours, including travel, winery visits, and tasting.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the air-conditioned minibus is full-option and designed for comfort during the journey.

What if I need to cancel the tour?
Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 5 days in advance, but early reservations are recommended for availability.

Can I participate if I’m not a wine drinker?
Yes, non-drinkers can enjoy the guided tours and scenery, but tastings are limited to those over 18.

Are there additional costs I should be aware of?
Yes, entrance fees and the picnic are paid separately—approximately €80 per person—and are not included in the base price.

What makes this tour stand out compared to others?
The private nature, luxurious transport, and personalized attention from the driver-guide make this an engaging and comfortable way to experience Provence’s renowned wineries.