Chablis & Northern Burgundy Wine Tour

Explore Chablis & Northern Burgundy on a Full-Day Wine Tour

For those interested in experiencing some of France’s most celebrated wines, the Chablis & Northern Burgundy Wine Tour offers a perfect blend of scenic vineyard visits, tastings, and local insights. Priced at $315.26 per person, this tour lasts approximately 8 to 10 hours, making it an in-depth experience that fits comfortably into a day. It departs from Auxerre, France, and features round-trip transfers, a small group size—copping to a maximum of 8 travelers—and live commentary from a knowledgeable guide.

What sets this tour apart is its careful curation of visits to renowned vineyards, including those producing organic and biodynamic wines. Guests appreciate the personalized attention due to the small group size, as well as the opportunity to sample rare Burgundy whites and Pinot Noirs. While the tour does not include lunch or train tickets, it offers a comprehensive look into Burgundy’s wine culture with plenty of tasting and educational moments.

This tour is ideal for wine enthusiasts, history lovers, or foodies eager to explore the vineyards of Chablis and surrounding villages. It’s a great choice for those who enjoy guided experiences with detailed commentary and are comfortable with a moderate physical activity level. Keep in mind that lunch is not included, but the tour provides an information package and shipment details for wines purchased.

Key Points

• Price: $315.26 per person, including three wine tastings
• Duration: 8 to 10 hours, with early morning start at 10:00am
• Highlights: Visits to Domaine Jean-Louis Jean-Christophe Bersan, Domaine Louis Moreau, Domaine Jean-Marc Brocard, and Domaine du Clos du Roi
• Transport: Private vehicle with hotel pickup within 50 km of Chablis and train station drop-off in Auxerre
• Group size: Limited to 8 people for more personalized guidance
• Special features: Organic wine tastings, panoramic vineyard views, and local market visits in Chablis on Sundays

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at 10:00am and includes pickup and drop-off at hotels or guest houses within a 50 km radius of Chablis. Alternatively, travelers arriving by train can meet at the Auxerre train station, with train times communicated in advance. The private vehicle ensures a comfortable ride through the scenic vineyards and regional villages, while the small group size promotes a relaxed atmosphere and more interaction with the guide.

Visiting Top Vineyards in Chablis and Northern Burgundy

The first stop takes place at Domaine Jean-Louis Jean-Christophe Bersan, where visitors can explore 12th-century cellars and taste a rare Burgundy white wine crafted from Sauvignon blanc. This visit highlights the tradition and craftsmanship behind Burgundy’s white wines, offering insight into their cultivation and production.

Next, at Domaine Louis Moreau, the focus is on Chablis wines, including Premier Cru and Grand Cru varieties. Guests enjoy a commented tasting that explains the nuances of Burgundy’s iconic white wines. The 45-minute session allows for a deeper appreciation of the wine styles that make Chablis famous around the world.

Along With vineyard visits, the tour includes a Sunday-only stop at the Office de Tourisme du Pays Chablisien, where visitors can stroll through a lively, colorful local street market. This provides a chance to experience the region’s local culture and perhaps pick up some regional specialties.

Organic and Biodynamic Wineries

A highlight of the tour is the visit to Domaine Jean-Marc Brocard, where organic and biodynamic methods are used to produce distinctive Chablis wines. Guests learn about the sustainable practices employed in the vineyards and taste wines that showcase unique terroir expressions. This stop lasts an hour, offering a meaningful glimpse into modern winemaking techniques in Burgundy.

The final vineyard visit is to Domaine du Clos du Roi, a local winery that shares stories about regional wine-making history and showcases local varieties. The 45-minute experience emphasizes the heritage of winemaking in the area and provides an opportunity to sample more regional wines.

Tasting, Purchasing, and Learning

Throughout the day, guests enjoy three wine tastings, each led by a wine expert guide. The tour provides maps and tasting notes in an information package that helps deepen understanding of the wines sampled. If visitors wish to purchase bottles, order forms and shipment details are also provided, making it easy to bring home a taste of Burgundy.

While lunch is not included, the tour recommends nearby bistros or restaurants, with an average cost of around $25-$30 per person. The focus remains on wine, scenery, and storytelling, making it a well-rounded day for those eager to learn about Burgundy’s wine heritage.

Additional Tour Features and Considerations

The tour includes round-trip transportation from hotels or guesthouses and private vehicle travel between vineyards. The live commentary adds context to each stop, and photos from a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the Chablis Grand Cru vineyards are part of the experience.

Participants should be prepared for all weather conditions and moderate physical activity, as exploring vineyards and walking through markets and scenic views are part of the day. The dress code is smart casual, suitable for a relaxed yet refined day in the French countryside.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What makes this tour particularly appealing is the combination of expert-guided tastings, interactive vineyard visits, and the chance to explore regional markets. The small group size ensures personal attention and more meaningful conversations, especially with the wine expert guide.

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guidance and stunning views, which make the day both educational and enjoyable. The focus on organic and biodynamic wines adds a modern touch, appealing to those interested in sustainable wine practices.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This experience is best suited for wine lovers, foodies, and culture enthusiasts who appreciate guided tours with detailed commentary. It offers a comprehensive look at Burgundy’s white wines and Pinot Noirs, making it ideal for those wanting to deepen their knowledge of French wines.

Participants should be comfortable with moderate walking and an entire day of activities. The small group setting creates an intimate atmosphere, perfect for engaging discussions and personalized attention.

Final Thoughts on the Chablis & Northern Burgundy Wine Tour

The $315.26 price covers three tastings, all transportation, and expert guidance, making it a valuable choice for serious wine enthusiasts. The eight to ten hours spent exploring vineyards, markets, and scenic viewpoints are well-paced and informative.

While lunch and train tickets are not included, the day’s focus remains on wine education and tasting, with plenty of opportunities to purchase bottles and learn about Burgundy’s winemaking traditions. The small group size and personalized attention make this tour a memorable way to experience some of France’s best wines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included. Guests are encouraged to dine at nearby bistros or restaurants, with an approximate cost of $25-$30 per person.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour operates with a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience with plenty of guide interaction.

Are there any physical requirements?
Yes, participants should have a moderate physical fitness level since the tour involves walking around vineyards and markets.

Can I buy wines during the tour?
Yes, order forms and shipment details are provided for guests wishing to purchase wines at each vineyard.

What is the cancellation policy?
Guests can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance will not be refunded.

This well-balanced combination of vineyard visits, tastings, and scenic exploration makes the Chablis & Northern Burgundy Wine Tour a top choice for those eager to experience French winemaking in a relaxed, guided setting.