From Bordeaux: Full-Day St Emilion Wine Tasting Tour

Discover the charm of Saint Emilion with this full-day tour departing from Bordeaux. Priced at a competitive rate, this 8-hour experience includes visits to three classified growth châteaux, offering tastings of exceptional Bordeaux wines. The tour features a guided walking tour of the medieval village and free time for lunch and exploration, making it ideal for wine lovers and culture enthusiasts alike. The journey is led by expert guides, with reviews emphasizing their knowledge and friendliness. The small group size (limited to 8 participants) ensures a personalized experience, and the fully equipped minivans provide comfortable transport. This tour operates rain or shine, and includes valuable insights into the Right Bank wines, primarily made from Merlot and Cabernet Franc.

Key Points

• 8-hour full-day experience from Bordeaux to Saint Emilion.
• Visits to three classified growth châteaux with wine tastings included.
• Guided walking tour of the medieval village of Saint Emilion.
• Comfortable transportation in fully equipped minivans.
• Small group size (up to 8 participants) for a more personalized experience.
• Expert guides known for knowledgeable, friendly, and fun commentary.

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The Full-Day Itinerary and Scenic Stops

This tour departs from Bordeaux’s central tourism office, located at 12 cours du 30 Juillet in front of the tourist office, with a meeting point that’s easy to find. After boarding the fully equipped minivans, travelers enjoy a 45-minute drive through Bordeaux’s outskirts into the Libournais wine region.

The first stop is a famous classified growth château in the Pomerol or Saint Emilion appellation. Here, visitors participate in a wine tasting session that lasts about an hour. The guide provides insights into the winemaking process, focusing on wines made primarily from Merlot, with some Cabernet Franc and very little Malbec.

Next, the tour continues with a 30-minute drive to a second château, where another wine tasting session takes place. Each visit offers a chance to explore different vintage profiles and wine styles, with all wineries chosen for their quality and reputation.

Following the vineyard visits, the group arrives in Saint Emilion village for a two-hour break. During this time, travelers can enjoy lunch, explore the underground monuments, or simply soak in the historic atmosphere of this hilltop medieval town. The guide leads a short walking tour through the main monuments, revealing the town’s architecture, history, and famous landmarks.

In the afternoon, another winery visit and tasting conclude the day’s wine exploration. This session lasts about an hour, allowing for further tasting and discussion. Afterward, the group boards the minivans for the 45-minute journey back to Bordeaux, returning to the starting point.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses comfortable, fully equipped minivans to ensure a smooth ride through the scenic countryside. The small group limit of 8 participants guarantees a more intimate experience, with opportunities for personalized questions and interaction with guides. The logistics are designed for comfort and efficiency, with timely transitions between stops.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out: Visits to Classified Growth Châteaux

The focus on three classified growth châteaux is a key feature. These wineries are recognized for their quality and prestige, offering different styles and terroirs within the Saint Emilion and Pomerol regions. Each visit includes a guided tour of the vineyard and winery, providing a behind-the-scenes look at their winemaking techniques.

The wine tastings at these estates are carefully curated. All wineries have been selected for their quality assurance, and most tastings are for the group only, giving a personalized experience. You’ll taste various red Bordeaux wines, primarily made from Merlot, with some Cabernet Franc, and a very small quantity of Malbec, which is becoming less common due to the area’s climate and soil conditions.

Saint Emilion Village: A Medieval Marvel

The guided walking tour of Saint Emilion offers a glimpse into one of France’s most picturesque villages. Visitors get to see main monuments such as the underground monuments, churches, and medieval streets. The two-hour free time allows for personal exploration, shopping at wine shops, or enjoying a leisurely lunch in local cafés.

The village’s atmosphere is often described as quaint and historic, with reviews highlighting its visual beauty and vibrant vibe. Many choose to revisit this town on their own after the tour for extended exploration.

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Guides: Knowledgeable, Friendly, and Entertaining

Many reviews praise the guides for their extensive knowledge and engaging personalities. Guides such as Rodolphe, Lea, Mathis, Mirela, Julie, and others are regularly mentioned for their friendly demeanor and ability to share stories and insights about wine, the region, and local history.

The small group setting fosters a relaxed, conversational atmosphere, making it easy to ask questions and learn more about the wines and the region. The guides often share personal anecdotes and fun facts, enhancing the overall experience.

Logistics and Practical Tips

The tour operates rain or shine, and children under 18 are not allowed, making it an adult-oriented experience. Comfortable shoes are recommended due to the walking in Saint Emilion and vineyard visits. The meeting point is conveniently located in Bordeaux city center, and the entire day is paced to balance touring, tasting, and free time.

Please note that visits to wineries are not private but are often for your group alone. The activity includes no snacks during tastings, in keeping with French customs, so a good breakfast or lunch beforehand is advisable.

Pricing, Cancellation, and Booking Flexibility

The tour offers free cancellation if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind. Travelers can reserve now and pay later, which adds flexibility to trip planning. The 8-hour duration makes it a comprehensive day trip without feeling overly rushed.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This experience suits adults who enjoy wine, history, and culture. It is ideal for those seeking a small group setting with personalized attention. The focus on prestigious wineries and the charming town of Saint Emilion makes it particularly appealing to wine enthusiasts and curious travelers wanting an authentic taste of the Bordeaux region.

Final Thoughts on the Bordeaux Saint Emilion Wine Tour

This tour offers a well-organized, informative, and enjoyable way to explore the famous Saint Emilion region. With visits to three classified growth châteaux, guided tours, and free time in the village, the experience balances wine tasting with cultural discovery. The expert guides and small group size enhance the overall quality.

While it is not suitable for children or wheelchair users, adults who appreciate good wines and historic towns will find this full-day journey especially rewarding. Its value for money, based on the quality of wineries visited and the knowledge shared, makes it a recommended choice for those visiting Bordeaux.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts 8 hours, including travel, visits, tastings, and free time in Saint Emilion.

Where does the tour start and end?
It departs from Bordeaux’s central tourism office at 12 cours du 30 Juillet and returns there at the end of the day.

Are the winery visits private?
Visits are not private but are usually for your group only, providing a personal experience.

Is transportation included?
Yes, comfortable, fully equipped minivans transport the group between Bordeaux, vineyards, and Saint Emilion.

Can children join this tour?
No, this is an adults-only tour, and children under 18 are not permitted.

What should I bring?
Bring passport or ID, comfortable shoes, and be prepared for some walking and standing during the tour.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No, this tour is not wheelchair accessible.

Can I cancel and get a refund?
Yes, full refund is available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

How many people are in each group?
The group is limited to 8 participants for a more personalized experience.

What makes this tour different from others?
Its focus on prestigious classified growth châteaux and guided exploration of Saint Emilion provides an authentic and in-depth Bordeaux wine experience.

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