Tastings and private guided tour SOUTH BURGUNDY: Le Maconnais

Explore the Vineyards of Beaujolais and Mâconnais in One Day

This private guided tour from Lyon offers an immersive experience through the renowned South Burgundy region, focusing on Le Maconnais and Beaujolais vineyards. Priced at $939.01 per person, the tour lasts approximately 8 hours and is designed for those eager to savor authentic wines, learn about local viticulture, and enjoy scenic views. It features about 10 to 12 wine tastings, visits to family estates, and stops at iconic vineyard sites, all led by a local, passionate guide.

The tour starts at 9:00 am from Lyon and includes luxury transportation in an air-conditioned Mercedes. It’s perfect for wine enthusiasts who appreciate a well-organized day with commented tastings, meetings with winery members, and the comfort of a private, small-group setting. While the $939 fee might seem high, it covers tastings, transportation, and expert guidance—making it an all-inclusive experience. This tour suits those who want a comprehensive, relaxed day of wine exploration without the hassle of planning.

Key Points

• Private guided experience from Lyon focusing on Le Maconnais and Beaujolais vineyards
• Approximate 8-hour itinerary with about 10-12 wine tastings included
• Visits to family estates and well-known crus like Morgon, Fleurie, Pouilly-Fuissé, and Saint Véran
• Luxury transportation in an air-conditioned Mercedes ensures comfort throughout the day
• Expert guide shares engaging stories, answering all questions, and highlighting viticultural secrets
• Scenic stops include the Roche de Solutré and views of the hills of the central massif

Starting Point and Transportation Logistics

The tour departs from Lyon at 9:00 am, with the convenience of pickup included. Participants are whisked away in a luxury Mercedes vehicle, offering air-conditioned comfort for the entire journey. The tour is designed for small groups, ensuring personalized attention from the guide. The return to Lyon is scheduled around 5:00 pm, with a drive time of about 50 minutes.

The tour’s logistics make it accessible, especially for those near public transportation options. Since most travelers can participate, it’s a flexible choice for a wide range of visitors. However, note that toilets are not on board, so plan accordingly.

Scenic Route Through Burgundy’s Vineyards

Leaving Lyon, the tour heads north toward the Mâconnais region, offering views of the central massif hills. The first highlight is a stop at La Roche de Solutré, where exceptional panoramic views and vineyard landscapes create a perfect photo opportunity. While here, the guide discusses the vine cycle and viticultural practices across the seasons.

Next, the journey takes you to the Fuisse area, where a winery visit reveals the winemaking process from cellar to bottle. You’ll taste 5 wines, including Pouilly-Fuissé and Saint Véran, crafted from Chardonnay. The visit offers a chance to learn about aging and vineyard management, making the tasting both educational and enjoyable.

Tasting the Best of Maconnais: Pouilly-Fuissé and Saint Véran

The Fuisse winery stop stands out as a highlight, with the cellar tour providing insight into winemaking techniques. Tasting 5 wines from this region emphasizes the Chardonnay grape’s versatility. The Pouilly-Fuissé wines are known for their refined elegance, while Saint Véran offers a fresh, crisp alternative.

This part of the tour emphasizes local craftsmanship and the importance of terroir. The winery staff is available for questions, enriching the tasting experience. Since tastings are included in the price, guests enjoy a generous selection without extra costs.

Exploring the Beaujolais Crus: Morgon, Moulin à Vent, and More

After lunch, the tour visits Villie-Morgon, where a third wine tasting introduces crus like Morgon, Moulin à Vent, Brouilly, and Régnié. Here, the focus is on the Gamay grape, with tastings showcasing the region’s signature red wines.

The crus of Beaujolais are distinguished by their unique characteristics; Morgon, for example, is known for its deep, structured reds, while Moulin à Vent offers robust flavors. The guide shares stories about the cru classification and winemaking traditions, deepening the appreciation of these wines.

Lunch Break with Regional Cuisine and Fine Wines

At 1:00 pm, the tour pauses at a local restaurant for a regional lunch. The menu starts at €25 per person, with dishes that highlight local flavors, perfectly paired with local wines. While the lunch cost is not included, the pairing enhances the tasting experience and offers a taste of Burgundy’s culinary heritage.

This pause provides a relaxed setting to enjoy regional specialties amidst a convivial atmosphere. It’s an ideal chance to reflect on the morning’s tastings and to savor Burgundy’s gastronomic delights.

The Charm of the Beaujolais Crus in the Afternoon

Post-lunch, the tour continues with a visit to a winery in the Beaujolais crus area, where a final tasting showcases wines from Morgon, Moulin à Vent, Brouilly, and Régnié. The focus here is on expression of terroir, showcasing the diversity within Beaujolais.

Participants have the chance to meet winery members, ask questions, and gain insight into cru-specific nuances. The guide’s storytelling enhances the experience, making each sip more meaningful.

Return to Lyon with Scenic Views and Last Insights

The journey back to Lyon is scheduled for around 5:00 pm, with a 50-minute drive offering scenic views of the landscape. The guide summarizes the day, answering any remaining questions and sharing additional insights about Burgundy’s wine culture.

Throughout the day, the small-group setting and personalized guide ensure an engaging, informative experience. The capped group size makes it easier to connect, ask questions, and enjoy the relaxed pace.

The Value Proposition and Who Will Love This Tour

This private guided tour offers a comprehensive look into South Burgundy’s wine regions, combining vineyard visits, wine tastings, and cultural insights. While the price point is significant, it includes all tastings and transportation, delivering a smooth, hassle-free experience.

It particularly suits wine lovers who want to learn about Gamay and Chardonnay, enjoy scenic vineyard landscapes, and explore prestigious crus like Morgon, Fleurie, Pouilly-Fuissé, and Saint Véran. The tour’s personalized guidance and luxury transportation make it a comfortable and enriching day trip from Lyon.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning around 5:00 pm.

What is included in the price?
The price covers commented tastings of about 10 to 12 wines, meeting with winery members, and luxury transportation in an air-conditioned Mercedes.

Are meals included?
Lunch is not included but is available at a nearby restaurant for about €25 per person.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, with most physical requirements accommodated, but note that toilets are not on board.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

What makes this tour unique?
The tour’s private, small-group setting, expert local guide, and visits to family estates and crus distinguish it from other wine tours.

What is the vehicle like?
Participants travel comfortably in a luxury Mercedes vehicle, which is air-conditioned for a relaxing day.

How scenic are the stops?
Stops like La Roche de Solutré offer spectacular views that enhance the overall experience.

Is transportation included?
Yes, all transportation in the luxury vehicle is included, making logistics easy.

What wines will I taste?
Tastings feature white wines like Pouilly-Fuissé and Saint Véran, and reds from Morgon, Moulin à Vent, Brouilly, and Régnié.

Can I customize the experience?
This is a private tour, so the guide can answer questions and tailor parts of the experience to your interests.

How accessible is the tour?
The tour is designed to be accessible for most travelers, with convenient meeting points close to public transportation.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins in Lyon at 9:00 am and concludes around 5:00 pm at the original meeting point.

For wine enthusiasts seeking a well-organized and insightful day exploring Burgundy’s finest wines, this private tour provides a balanced mix of education, tastings, and scenic views that makes for a memorable experience.