From Bordeaux: Saint-Emilion Guided Wine Tasting Tour

Discover Bordeaux’s Hidden Charm in Saint-Émilion

This guided wine tasting tour from Bordeaux offers a memorable day exploring the medieval village of Saint-Émilion, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Priced at $129 per person and lasting 5.5 hours, the tour combines two winery visits, up to six tastings of red wines, and a stroll through the charming streets of the town. The experience is perfect for those wanting a rich taste of regional wine combined with culture.

Departing from Bordeaux’s Office de Tourisme et des Congrès, the tour uses a brand new 8-seater mini van to ensure comfort and intimacy. The itinerary includes guided tours at two different wineries, a photo stop in Saint-Émilion, a food and wine pairing at a family-owned winery, and free time to explore the town’s Romanesque churches and steep, narrow streets. The tour is generally praised for its knowledgeable guides, engaging storytelling, and small-group atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Price and Duration: $129 for 5.5 hours, including up to six red wine tastings.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 8 participants, fostering a personal atmosphere.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Maude, Clem, Mel, and Yan receive high praise for their knowledge and friendliness.
• Authentic Wine & Food: Visits to family-owned wineries with regional cheese and cured meats included at the second stop.
• Cultural Exploration: A guided walk through Saint-Émilion’s medieval streets provides historical context and scenic views.
• Transportation: Travel in a brand new mini van, with timely departures from Bordeaux.

Starting Point and Practical Details

The tour begins at the Bordeaux Tourist Office located at 12 Cr du 30 juillet. All departures are precise to accommodate the wineries’ schedules, so punctuality is essential. The small group size makes for a relaxed pace, allowing plenty of time at each stop.

The tour does not include lunch, but local food and wine are central to the experience. Hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included, so travelers should plan accordingly. The meeting point is accessible via Tram B or C at Quinconces.

Unpacking the Itinerary: What You Do and See

The day kicks off with a guided visit to the first winery, where you’ll enjoy a wine tasting session lasting approximately 1.5 hours. Guides explain wine tasting techniques, helping you appreciate the nuances of Bordeaux reds. Expect to learn how to properly taste wine and recognize different aromas and flavors.

Next, the group visits Saint-Émilion for a photo stop and a guided walk lasting about an hour. During this time, the guide shares insights into the town’s Romanesque architecture, historic churches, and steep streets. The walk offers ample opportunity for photos of the scenic vistas and medieval charm.

The afternoon continues with a second winery visit, focusing on family-owned estates. Here, you’ll participate in a wine and cheese tasting, complemented by regional specialties like cured meats. An aperitif and additional glass of wine are part of this stop, highlighting the rich local flavors and making for a delightful social experience.

The tour concludes with a one-hour minivan ride back to Bordeaux, allowing the group to relax and reflect on the day’s highlights before returning to the initial meeting point.

Visiting Two Unique Wineries

The first winery provides a guided tour and a tasting of Bordeaux’s renowned red wines. The focus is on local wine production, with explanations from guides about the region’s vineyards and special vintages.

The second winery is family-owned, emphasizing regional traditions and regional specialties. The cheese and cured meats offered here complement the wines perfectly, making it a highlight for food lovers. The additional glass of wine at this stop, along with regional snacks, creates an authentic French lifestyle moment.

More Great Tours Nearby

Saint-Émilion’s Medieval Streets and Landmarks

The guided walk through Saint-Émilion exposes visitors to its Romanesque churches, ancient ruins, and steep cobbled streets. The guide shares stories about the town’s history, architecture, and wine-making heritage. While the village is not wheelchair accessible, the walk offers ample photo opportunities and a chance to soak in authentic local charm.

The photo stop allows visitors to capture views of the village’s rooftops and surrounding vineyards. The free time after the walk provides space for exploring boutique shops, local cafes, or simply enjoying the atmosphere.

Transportation and Group Size Advantages

Traveling in a brand new mini van ensures a comfortable ride between Bordeaux and Saint-Émilion. The small group size of limited to 8 participants creates a personalized experience, allowing guides to tailor their commentary and engage more directly with travelers.

This intimate setting results in many positive reviews praising the friendly guides, such as Maude, Clem, Mel, and Yan, for their knowledge, entertaining style, and ability to share insights about both wine and the region’s history.

The Food and Wine Experience at the Family Winery

The highlight for many is the regional food pairing at the second winery. The cheese, cured meats, and local snacks highlight Bordeaux’s culinary traditions, perfectly complementing the wines. The additional glass of wine enhances this experience, making it a relaxed and social part of the tour.

The guides ensure that everyone feels involved, sharing tips for tasting and recommendations for local restaurants or other attractions in Saint-Émilion.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

The tour’s duration and physical demands make it suitable for most visitors comfortable with walking on cobblestones. Since wheelchair accessibility is not available, those with mobility challenges should consider alternative options.

The small group size and knowledgeable guides make it ideal for wine enthusiasts, history buffs, or anyone seeking a relaxed yet immersive day in Bordeaux’s wine country. It’s especially well-suited for those who enjoy personalized service and authentic regional experiences.

Final Thoughts on the Saint-Émilion Guided Wine Tasting Tour

This 5.5-hour journey offers a well-balanced mix of wine tasting, cultural discovery, and regional cuisine. The price of $129 includes up to six tastings, two winery visits, and an expert-guided tour of Saint-Émilion, making it good value compared to similar experiences.

The guides’ friendliness, rich content, and small-group setting make this an engaging and educational outing. While the village’s hills and cobblestones may pose challenges for some, the overall experience provides a true taste of Bordeaux’s wine heritage and medieval charm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation in a brand new 8-seater mini van is included, with pickup at the Bordeaux Tourist Office.

How many wine tastings are offered?
Up to six tastings of red wines are included, with additional wine and regional snacks served at the second winery.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5.5 hours, starting and ending at the Bordeaux Tourist Office.

Are there any physical limitations or accessibility issues?
The village of Saint-Émilion is not wheelchair accessible, and the tour involves walking on steep streets and cobblestones.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance. You can also reserve now and pay later for flexible planning.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but regional food and wine experiences are part of the tour at the second winery.

This guided tour from Bordeaux combines wine, culture, and regional flavors, making it an excellent choice for those seeking an authentic and personalized experience of Saint-Émilion.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby