From Bordeaux: Saint-Emilion Wine Tasting Tour

Key Points

• Duration and Price: The tour lasts 5 hours and costs $112 per person.
• Start Times and Meeting Point: Available in morning (8:30 a.m.) or afternoon (1:30 p.m.), meeting at 1 Place Stalingrad in Bordeaux.
• Highlights: Visit two wine estates, enjoy at least 5 wine tastings of Grand Cru or Grand Cru classé wines, and explore the medieval village of Saint-Emilion.
• Food and Drink: Includes a local aperitif with products like cheese, sausage, crackers & chocolate, but no full meal.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 8 participants, guided by knowledgeable local guides in English and French.
• Booking Flexibility: Offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now, pay later.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Saint-Emilion’s Historic Village

The tour begins with a guided visit of the medieval village of Saint-Emilion, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This charming town features narrow cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and scenic viewpoints that make it a favorite for visitors interested in the area’s cultural and architectural charm. The guide will share stories about the village’s past, adding context to the sights along the way.

Participants enjoy free time or a guided tour, depending on their preferences. Walking through the lively streets, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for photos, shopping for local products, or simply soaking in the ambiance of this historic locale. The visit offers a balanced mix of sightseeing and relaxation, perfect for lovers of history and architecture.

Visit to a Family-Run Saint-Emilion Grand Cru Estate

One of the tour’s highlights is the visit to an authentic, family-run Saint-Emilion Grand Cru estate. Here, the guide leads guests through the winemaking process, explaining each stage from vine to bottle. Visitors get a close look at the estate’s technical facilities and learn about the estate’s history and traditions.

After the tour of the estate, a tasting of three wines takes place, paired with an aperitif that includes cheese, sausage, crackers, and chocolate. While this isn’t a full meal, the selection complements the wines nicely and provides a taste of local flavors. The visit emphasizes the personal, artisanal approach of the estate, offering insight into the craftsmanship behind the wines.

Premium Wine Tastings at Saint-Emilion Grand Cru or Grand Cru Classé

The second winery stop highlights prestigious Château Grand Cru or Grand Cru Classé estates. Guests enjoy a minimum of two wine tastings of high-quality wines, often from renowned producers in the Saint-Emilion region. The tasting experience underscores the diversity and depth of local wines, giving a comprehensive view of the region’s offerings.

The visit to these estates provides an opportunity to appreciate the distinct characteristics of the wines produced at these prestigious châteaux. These tastings are a key part of the experience, especially for those interested in learning about different wine styles and classifications.

Transport and Group Size Details

Travel between Bordeaux and Saint-Emilion takes place in a 9-seater van, ensuring a comfortable and intimate experience. The tour keeps the group small—no more than 8 participants—which enhances interaction with guides and allows for personalized attention.

The guide and driver coordinate to provide engaging commentary during transit, sharing insights into the Bordeaux and Saint-Emilion wine regions. This setup fosters a relaxed atmosphere, making it easy to ask questions and enjoy the scenic drive.

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Timing, Pacing, and Flexibility

The tour departs twice daily—at 8:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.—allowing flexibility around your schedule. The full experience lasts 5 hours, with the morning tour ending around 1:30 p.m. and the afternoon version wrapping up at 6:30 p.m..

Depending on preferences, the tour can include either a guided tour of Saint-Emilion or free time for personal exploration. This flexible approach caters to different interests—whether visitors want detailed context or leisurely strolls.

Insights from Reviews and Guides

Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides, often highlighting Sonia and Catherine for their warmth, friendliness, and expertise. Guides do an excellent job explaining the history and nuances of wine-making, often sharing extra details that enhance the experience.

Guests also appreciate the friendly vineyard owners, the beautiful landscapes, and the quality of wines tasted—noting that the seven wines sampled during the tour are all very good. The visit to prestigious estates adds a touch of exclusivity and prestige to the experience.

A few reviews mention a small hiccup, such as a language mismatch where the official tour language was expected to be French but was conducted in English. This highlights the importance of confirming language preferences beforehand.

Practical Details and Booking Information

The meeting point is at 1 Place Stalingrad in Bordeaux, directly in front of the LCL Bank. The tour includes transport, guided visits, wine tastings, and the local aperitif. It does not include lunch or souvenirs.

Guests should bring a passport or ID card for identification. The tour is not suitable for unaccompanied minors or those wearing sports shoes. For comfort, travelers should note that children under 14 and animals are not permitted.

Reservations are flexible, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and the ability to reserve now and pay later offers extra convenience.

Summary: A Well-Rounded Saint-Emilion Wine Experience

This 5-hour guided tour from Bordeaux offers a comprehensive glimpse into the Saint-Emilion region, combining historical sights, family-run estates, and prestigious wineries. The inclusion of at least 5 wine tastings—covering both local classics and high-end labels—makes it a solid choice for wine enthusiasts.

The small group size and friendly guides ensure an engaging, personalized experience, with plenty of opportunities to learn and ask questions. The scenic village walk adds a cultural dimension, making this tour ideal for history lovers, wine connoisseurs, and travelers seeking a relaxed yet enriching day outside Bordeaux.

While the aperitif enriches the wine-tasting experience, those expecting a full meal should plan to dine elsewhere afterward. This tour offers excellent value, combining quality visits, beautiful scenery, and local flavors—perfect for a memorable day in the Bordeaux wine region.

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