Bordeaux: Wine Tour with blending workshop full day

Key Points

• Full-day experience combining wine education, vineyard visits, and exploring Saint-Emilion.
• Includes a 1.5-hour blending workshop to create your own wine blend.
• Tastings of 10 wines, including 6 quality French wines and 3 local wines during the visit.
• Visit to a prestigious Great Classified Growth estate in Saint-Emilion.
• Guided walking tour of the UNESCO-listed medieval village of Saint-Emilion.
• Small group size limited to 8 participants for a personalized experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Bordeaux: A Full-Day Tour with Blending Workshop and Vineyard Visits

This full-day tour from Bordeaux offers a well-rounded introduction to French wines, combining a wine tasting class, visits to prestigious vineyards, and a guided tour of Saint-Emilion. For $174 per person, the experience lasts around 8 hours, making it suitable for those eager to deepen their wine knowledge while enjoying the region’s beauty.

The tour begins in Bordeaux at the À la Française apartment, where a welcome white wine kicks off your journey. The 1.5-hour blending workshop is a standout feature, allowing participants to learn about the differences between single-varietal wines and blended wines. The guide explains the process clearly, and the pairings of French bread, sausage, cheese, and dark chocolate help illustrate how wines can be complemented by local delicacies.

Discovering Bordeaux’s Grape Varieties and Tasting Techniques

After the workshop, you deepen your understanding of main grape varieties like Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Tasting two single-varietal wines provides insight into their unique aromas and flavors, building a foundation for appreciating the complexities of Bordeaux wines.

The tasting session includes a blind tasting of a well-known Bordeaux wine, challenging participants to identify its origin. The guide’s explanations make it accessible for those new to wine tasting, emphasizing aroma recognition and taste appreciation. All of this is accompanied by a typical French aperitif, giving you a taste of regional flavors.

Scenic Drive to Saint-Emilion and the Vineyard Visit

At 2:00 pm, the tour moves by minivan to the Saint-Emilion region, famous for its UNESCO World Heritage classification. The drive offers scenic views of the rolling vineyards and historic architecture.

The visit includes entry to a Great Classified Growth winery, where you learn about the winemaking process from vine to bottle. The estate offers explanations about their winemaking techniques and provides a tasting of some of their wines, accompanied by French delicacies like bread, cheese, and dark chocolate. This visit highlights the region’s prestige and tradition.

Exploring the Medieval Village of Saint-Emilion

In the late afternoon, a guided walk through the medieval village reveals its UNESCO-listed architecture, narrow streets, and historical sites. The guide shares stories about the village’s history and the classification that makes it a standout destination. Visitors enjoy a relaxed pace, taking in views of churches, underground monolithic structures, and local shops.

Saint-Emilion’s charm lies in its blend of history and wine culture, making the walk both educational and visually rewarding. The guided visit ensures you uncover the village’s hidden corners and learn about its wine heritage.

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What’s Included and How the Logistics Work

The tour covers 10 wine tastings, including 6 quality wines during the workshop and vineyard visits, plus 3 local wines at the Château. The entrance fee to the prestigious Chateau** is included, along with a guided tour of Saint-Emilion.

Transportation is arranged in a minivan, ensuring a comfortable journey between Bordeaux and Saint-Emilion. The group remains small, limited to 8 participants, which encourages a more personalized and engaging experience. The meeting point is at 3 Rue d’Enghien, and the activity does not include hotel pick-up or lunch, though guidance is given on where to dine afterward.

The Guide and Overall Experience

The professional and friendly guide makes the day both educational and fun. They expertly explain wine processes, aromas, and tasting techniques, with reviews praising their knowledge and humor. Vicky and Remy are mentioned for their engaging personalities and deep expertise, making complex topics accessible.

Guests appreciate the balance of hands-on activities and scenic exploration, with many noting how much they learn about appellations, blends, and regional history. The small group size ensures a relaxed atmosphere and personalized attention.

The Value of the Bordeaux Wine Tour with Blending Workshop

At $174 per person, this tour offers significant value given the comprehensive experience: tastings of 10 wines, an entry to a classified estate, a blending workshop, and the guided exploration of Saint-Emilion. The inclusions and expert guidance make it ideal for those seeking an immersive introduction to Bordeaux wines.

While the tour does not include lunch or hotel transfers, it provides a well-structured day with timely stops, delicious tastings, and meaningful insights into Bordeaux’s wine culture. The live English guide ensures clear communication and an engaging learning environment.

Who Should Consider This Bordeaux Wine Tour

This experience is perfect for wine enthusiasts eager to understand the difference between single and blended wines and visit renowned vineyards. It suits those who want a comprehensive day out combining education, scenic views, and history without feeling rushed.

The tour is not recommended for people with mobility impairments due to the walking involved in Saint-Emilion, and it requires a minimum of two participants to operate. Pets are not allowed, and travelers should plan to arrange their own lunch in Saint-Emilion.

Final Thoughts on the Bordeaux Wine Tour with Blending Workshop

This 8-hour experience balances hands-on wine education with scenic vineyard and village visits, making it a strong choice for those new to wine or looking to deepen their understanding of Bordeaux’s renowned wines.

The small group size and expert guides ensure a personalized, friendly atmosphere. The inclusion of a blending workshop and entry to a top estate adds unique value that other tours may not offer. This tour provides a rich, engaging, and delicious day in Bordeaux’s wine country.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How long is the tour?
  The full-day experience lasts approximately 8 hours.

• What is included in the price?
  The tour includes 10 wine tastings, a French apéritif, entry to a Great Classified Growth Chateau, and a guided visit to Saint-Emilion.

• Is the blending workshop suitable for beginners?
  Yes, the workshop is designed to teach the basics of wine blending and tasting, making it accessible for all levels.

• Are there any physical requirements?
  The tour involves walking in Saint-Emilion, so it may not be suitable for those with mobility impairments.

• Does the tour include lunch?
  No, lunch is not included, but guidance is provided on where to find good dining options in Saint-Emilion.

• What is the group size?
  The tour is limited to 8 participants for a more personal experience.

• Can I cancel the tour?
  Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

• Is transportation included?
  Yes, transportation in a minivan is provided between Bordeaux and Saint-Emilion.

• Are children allowed on the tour?
  The tour details focus on adult participants; check with the provider for specific age restrictions.

• How do I find the meeting point?
  The meeting location is at 3 Rue d’Enghien in Bordeaux, at the À la Française apartment.

  You can check availability for your dates here:
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