Tasting: Sparkling Discovery

Key Points

• Affordable and concise: The $18, 1-hour tasting offers a focused introduction to Bourgogne’s sparkling wines.
• Expert-led experience: Guided by Maison André Delorme, a producer with since 1942 expertise in Crémants de Bourgogne.
• Diverse selection: Sample six different vintages, including Extra-Brut, Brut, Demi-Sec, and Crème de Fruits pairings.
• Specific focus on bubbles: The tasting highlights the fine bubbles and subtle aromas characteristic of Bourgogne’s sparkling wines.
• Accessible and flexible: The activity is wheelchair accessible, with English-speaking guides and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Crémants de Bourgogne at Maison André Delorme

This tasting experience centers on Maison André Delorme, a winery recognized for its long-standing expertise in producing Crémants de Bourgogne since 1942. For $18 per person, visitors enjoy a 1-hour session that introduces the elegance and finesse of Burgundy’s sparkling wines. The tour offers a personalized guide who explains the nuances of each vintage, making it suitable for those curious about sparkling wine craftsmanship or seeking a quick yet enriching taste of the region.

While the duration is short, the focus on six distinct Crémants, ranging from dry to more indulgent styles, makes this experience ideal for anyone looking for a focused wine tasting. A pairing with fruit liqueurs adds a special twist, enhancing the tasting with complementary flavors. The cost-effective price point and live guidance in English make it accessible for many visitors.

Maison André Delorme’s History and Expertise in Crémants

Founded in 1942, Maison André Delorme boasts a long history of crafting high-quality Crémants de Bourgogne. The winery’s recognized expertise ensures that each vintage reflects the region’s terroir and tradition. This heritage is a key part of the experience, giving visitors confidence in the authenticity and craftsmanship behind each sparkling wine.

As a producer, the house offers a variety of dosages, including Extra-Brut, Brut, Demi-Sec, and Blanc de Noirs. This heritage translates into a diverse tasting experience where guests can compare drier styles with more indulgent options like Demi-Sec. The focus on quality and finesse ensures that even in a brief session, the wines leave a lasting impression.

What You Can Expect During the Tasting Session

The tasting begins at Maison André Delorme, where a personalized welcome sets a friendly, informative tone. Guests sample six different Crémants de Bourgogne, each representing different dosages and vintages. The lineup typically includes:

• Crémant de Bourgogne Extra-Brut Blanc or Rosé, depending on preference
• Crémant de Bourgogne Blanc Brut
• Crémant de Bourgogne Blanc de Noirs Brut
• Crémant de Bourgogne Blanc de Blancs Brut
• “Prestige” Brut Blanc or Rosé
• Demi-Sec or Blanc Brut paired with Crème de Fruits

Throughout, a guide explains the distinct qualities of each, such as their bubble finesse, aroma complexity, and regional characteristics. The pairing with fruit liqueurs provides a unique dimension, highlighting how these sparkling wines can complement different flavors.

The Role of Burgundy Terroir in the Sparkling Wines

The region of Bourgogne-Franche-Comté is renowned for its terroir, which influences the elegance and richness of Crémants de Bourgogne. During the tasting, the guide emphasizes how the region’s soil and climate contribute to the subtle aromas and fine bubbles found in these wines.

This focus on terroir gives guests a deeper appreciation for why Bourgogne’s sparkling wines are held in such high regard. The region’s unique environment results in a variety of styles, from the driest Extra-Brut to the more indulgent Demi-Sec, offering a rundown of what makes Bourgogne bubbles special.

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The Tasting Experience and Atmosphere

The one-hour duration keeps the experience focused and lively. The small group size and personalized guidance foster an engaging environment where questions are welcomed. The English-speaking guide ensures clarity and detailed explanations, making it accessible even for those new to sparkling wine.

Guests are invited to savor each vintage at their own pace, with clarity on tasting notes and pairing suggestions. The setting at André Delorme maintains a warm, professional atmosphere, emphasizing the craftsmanship behind each bottle.

Accessibility and Practical Details

The experience is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for a wide range of visitors. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the activity, providing flexibility for travel plans. The activity also allows “Reserve now & pay later,” offering added convenience to those planning ahead.

Starting times vary, so guests can choose a slot that fits their schedule. The activity’s short duration makes it easy to include in broader sightseeing plans, especially for those with limited time in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté.

Comparing This Tasting to Other Wine Experiences

While this $18 tasting is quite concise, it offers a deep dive into Bourgogne’s sparkling wines by focusing on six different vintages and styles. Unlike larger, more extensive tastings, this experience provides a personalized, guided look into Crémants de Bourgogne, making it especially appealing for beginners or those short on time.

Other similar experiences might involve longer tours or additional activities, but this one’s strength lies in its focused approach and expert guidance from a historic producer. The inclusion of pairings with fruit liqueurs adds a special touch not always found in similar tastings.

Final Thoughts on the Sparkling Discovery Tour

This guided tasting at Maison André Delorme offers a compact yet comprehensive look at Bourgogne’s sparkling wines. The expert guidance, variety of vintages, and regional focus make it a valuable experience for anyone interested in French bubbles.

However, the short duration and limited number of wines mean it’s best suited for those seeking a quick introduction rather than an in-depth exploration. The price point and accessible format make it appealing, especially for first-time visitors or sparkling wine enthusiasts with limited time.

This Sparkling Discovery tasting is a solid choice for a focused, expert-led glimpse into Crémants de Bourgogne that highlights the region’s elegance and craftsmanship.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tasting?
The activity lasts 1 hour.

How much does the tasting cost?
It costs $18 per person.

Is the experience suitable for children?
No, it is not suitable for guests under 18 years.

What types of Crémants are included?
The tasting features six vintages, including Extra-Brut, Brut, Demi-Sec, and Crème de Fruits pairings.

Is the tour guided in English?
Yes, the live guide speaks English.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Is the experience accessible for people with mobility issues?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible.

Where does the tasting take place?
At Maison André Delorme.

Can I reserve and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later to keep your plans flexible.

What makes this tasting unique?
The focus on six different vintages and personalized guidance from a producer with since 1942 expertise makes this a notable introduction to Bourgogne’s sparkling wines.

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