Private half day Burgundy Wine and Food Tour by vintage Defender

The Private half-day Burgundy Wine and Food Tour by vintage Defender offers an engaging way to explore the Mâconnais region of Burgundy, famous for its white wines. Priced at $231.36 per person, this 4-hour tour combines scenic drives, visits to charming villages, and delicious tastings. The tour is private, ensuring an intimate experience, and includes pickup from the designated meeting point in Mâcon. With group discounts available and a flexible approach, this tour appeals to those seeking an authentic, personalized Burgundy experience.

While the tour covers a variety of stops from vineyards to historic sites, it is designed to be adaptable, making the most of your time and interests. The guides aim to treat guests more like friends than travelers, sharing local stories, wine knowledge, and regional insights. The tour’s strong points include the quality of wine tastings, scenic stops such as La Roche de Solutre, and visits to innovative local wineries.

Key Points

• Private half-day Burgundy wine tour departing from Mâcon for an intimate experience
• Four carefully curated stops covering vineyards, historic sites, and local villages
• In-depth wine tastings with regional wines, including a visit to a winery run by a young, innovative couple
• Visit to La Roche de Solutre, a hill with archeological significance and WW2 memorials
• Flexible itinerary that can be adapted for maximum value and enjoyment
• Price of $231.36 per person, with pickup included and group discounts available

Scenic Vineyards and Vintages on the First Stop in Verze

The tour begins at Verze, a vineyard viewpoint that offers stunning views of the Burgundy landscape. Here, visitors get an explanation of Burgundy wine varieties, accompanied by the opening of a local bottle for tasting. This first stop sets the tone, giving insight into the region’s wine culture while allowing guests to sample a fresh, authentic vinous product directly from the vine.

This scenic spot not only introduces the region but also emphasizes the importance of wine as a lifestyle in Bourgogne. The 40-minute stop is free of admission, giving ample time to appreciate the view and sip on regional wine in a relaxed setting.

Exploring a Hidden Village and a Local Winery in Vergisson

Next, the tour takes a short drive along small country roads to Vergisson, a quaint village framed between two hills. This stop highlights the region’s charm, with a visit to a family-owned winery. Guests get to taste a notably good white wine produced here, after having explored the vines nearby.

The focus at this stop is on showing the connection between the landscape and the wine, offering a genuine look at small-scale wine production. The 40-minute visit provides insight into regional winemaking techniques within a cozy, picturesque setting.

Walk Up La Roche de Solutre, A Hill with History

The La Roche de Solutre stop is both scenic and historic. The hill has the oldest traces of human presence dating from prehistoric times and served as a site of homage by a French president in the 1980s, who walked up the hill annually to honor the French Resistance during WW2.

For those interested, a 40-minute walk at a slow pace takes you to the top, offering panoramic views and a sense of the area’s deep history. Admission is free, making this stop both enriching and accessible. The walk is an easy option for active guests, providing a break from driving while soaking in cultural significance.

Wine Tasting in Solutre-Pouilly with a Local Druid

Solutre-Pouilly is the most famous village on this tour, known for its connection to a real druid living in the area. Guests learn about this unique local figure and the wines he produces, adding a layer of folklore alongside the tasting.

A dedicated 45-minute wine tasting session introduces participants to regional wines, guided by a professional. It’s an excellent chance to sample different styles and understand the diversity of Burgundy whites, with insights into the region’s wine culture provided by the guide.

Visiting a Young Winemaker in Leynes

The final stop takes guests to a domain managed by a young couple, representing a new generation of winemakers. Here, visitors taste wines from both the Mâconnais and Beaujolais regions, gaining perspective on modern techniques and trends in winemaking.

This 45-minute visit combines wine tasting with stories about innovative practices, giving a fresh take on Burgundy’s traditional scene. The emphasis on small, family-run vineyards underscores the region’s diversity and ongoing evolution.

Logistics and Meeting Point Details

The tour departs from the Office de Tourisme de Mâcon Sud Bourgogne at 1 Pl. Saint-Pierre. It concludes back at the same meeting point, making it convenient for guests staying nearby. The private nature of the tour guarantees exclusivity, with only your group participating.

Pickup options are available, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, including children who will only be served non-alcoholic beverages. The experience also offers mobile tickets and group discounts, accommodating different group sizes and preferences.

Physical Activity and Accessibility Considerations

The tour includes a walk up La Roche de Solutre, which takes around 40 minutes at a gentle pace. While this walk is considered easy, guests should be prepared for some light activity. The rest of the stops involve minimal walking and are accessible for most people.

Accessibility details are not explicitly specified, but the tour is designed to be comfortable for a broad range of participants, with most activities occurring at accessible locations.

Value, Pricing, and Booking Insights

Priced at $231.36 per person, this private tour offers a personalized experience, with an emphasis on quality over quantity. Booking usually occurs about 22 days in advance, reflecting high interest in this regional tour.

Guests appreciate the tour’s flexibility and the host’s knowledge, with reviews highlighting the excellent wine tastings and friendly, informative guidance. The tour’s focus on small producers and local stories adds value beyond standard wine tastings.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Burgundy Tour?

This private half-day Burgundy wine and food tour is ideal for those who want a personalized experience in the scenic Mâconnais region. It suits wine enthusiasts, history buffs, and travelers seeking an authentic taste of Burgundy’s white wines and local culture.

The tour’s scenic stops, engaging stories, and delicious tastings make it a memorable way to explore Burgundy’s countryside. While the walk up La Roche de Solutre is optional, it adds a rewarding cultural touch for active guests.

This tour balances scenic beauty, regional history, and wine expertise, providing a well-rounded half-day adventure. It’s a good fit for those who value small-group intimacy and a local, friendly atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can participate, but they will only be served non-alcoholic beverages. The focus is on wine and regional culture, so some stops may be more appealing to adults.

How long is the walk up La Roche de Solutre?
The walk lasts about 40 minutes at a slow pace and is considered easy. Guests should wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a gentle climb.

Are the wine tastings included in the price?
Yes, the wine tastings are part of the stops at each winery or vineyard, with expert guidance helping guests understand the wines.

What is the meeting point for this tour?
Guests meet at the Office de Tourisme de Mâcon Sud Bourgogne at 1 Pl. Saint-Pierre. The tour ends back here as well.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours before the start time. Cancellations less than 24 hours in advance are non-refundable.

Is the tour physically demanding?
Aside from the optional walk up La Roche de Solutre, the tour involves minimal physical activity and is accessible for most participants.

What makes this tour special?
The combination of scenic views, visits to small wineries, historical sites, and a focus on white Burgundy wines makes it a unique, personalized experience.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 22 days in advance, so early reservation is recommended to secure a spot.