Vertical degustation of a special cuvée with cheese plate

Unique Vertical Tasting of Château L’Éperon’s “L’Éclat” in Nouvelle-Aquitaine

This 1.5-hour private tour at Château L’Éperon offers an exclusive chance to explore the evolution of its signature “L’Éclat” cuvée across three vintages: 2018, 2019, and 2020. The experience is held in Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France, with the starting point at 701 Rte de Virles. The tour provides a deep look into winemaking techniques, terroir influence, and aging processes, making it an ideal choice for wine enthusiasts eager to understand how different vintages develop.

What truly sets this experience apart is the pairing of each vintage with artisan cheeses crafted locally. This combination of wine tasting and cheese pairing promises a sensory journey that highlights flavor evolution and winemaking craftsmanship. The entire experience is led by knowledgeable hosts who speak French, English, and Russian, ensuring clear communication and personalized attention.

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Key Points

• Exclusive vertical tasting of Château L’Éperon’s “L’Éclat” cuvée from 2018, 2019, and 2020
• Paired with carefully selected local artisan cheeses for a rich tasting experience
• Learn about terroir, aging, and winemaking methods from expert guides
• Private group experience lasting 1.5 hours in Nouvelle-Aquitaine
• Meet at 701 Rte de Virles, with a convenient meeting point at the entrance of the degustation room
• Options to reserve now and pay later with full cancellation up to 24 hours ahead

Starting Point at Château L’Éperon in Vérac

The tour begins at 701 Rte de Virles, where guides wait at the entrance of the degustation room. The location offers a quiet, intimate setting ideal for private groups or those seeking a personalized experience. The coordinates are 44.99666213989258, -0.33477118611335754, making it easy to find with GPS or local directions.

The Focus on Château L’Éperon’s “L’Éclat” Cuvee

The “L’Éclat” cuvée is the signature wine of Château L’Éperon, and this tour emphasizes its development over three distinct vintages. Guests will experience the differences and similarities between the 2018, 2019, and 2020 wines, gaining insight into how climatic variations and winemaking choices influence the final product. This vertical tasting underscores the art of aging and the impact of terroir on Bordeaux wines.

Learning About Terroir and Winemaking Techniques

A highlight of the experience is the talk on Château L’Éperon’s history and the specific terroir of Vérac. Guides explain how the soil composition, climate, and grape varieties—including Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Malbec—shape the wine’s character. The discussion also covers barrel production and its role during aging, helping visitors appreciate the craftsmanship behind each bottle.

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The Cheese Pairings Elevate the Tasting

Each vintage of “L’Éclat” is paired with artisan cheeses from the region, chosen to complement the wine’s flavor profile. The cheeses are carefully selected to enhance the tasting experience, providing a balance of savory notes and textural variety. This pairing creates a multi-sensory exploration that highlights the best of local craftsmanship.

The Itinerary: What Happens During the Tour

The itinerary includes a guided tour of the estate, where visitors learn about winemaking processes and the history of Château L’Éperon. After the initial introduction, the vertical tasting begins, with each vintage presented and explained in detail. The cheese pairing follows, with enough time for questions and discussion. The experience concludes back at the entrance, leaving guests with a deeper understanding of Bordeaux wines and terroir.

The Experience Environment and Group Size

This private group setting ensures a personalized, relaxed atmosphere. The duration of 1.5 hours allows enough time to appreciate each vintage without feeling rushed. The small group format makes it easier to interact with guides and ask questions, benefiting those who want a more intimate experience.

Accessibility and Language Options

The tour is led by hosts fluent in French, English, and Russian, catering to a diverse array of visitors. The meeting point is accessible by car, and the experience is suitable for those comfortable with standing and tasting for the duration. No specific physical requirements are noted, making it broadly accessible.

Reservation and Cancellation Policies

Booking can be done with the convenience of reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility in planning. Cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind for travelers uncertain of their plans.

Comparing to Similar Wine Experiences

This tour offers a more focused, intimate look into a single cuvée and its vintage evolution, unlike broader Bordeaux or Saint-Emilion tours. Its emphasis on vertical tasting combined with cheese pairing creates a more sensory and educational experience. Similar experiences include visits to Bordeaux, Saint-Emilion, or Pomerol, but this one excels in providing deep insights into aging and terroir influence.

Why This Tour Stands Out

The dedication to a single cuvée across multiple vintages, coupled with artisan cheese pairings, makes this tour particularly valuable for wine lovers seeking depth rather than breadth. The private group setting guarantees personalized guidance and a peaceful environment.

However, it is relatively short at 1.5 hours, which may not suit those wanting a longer, more extensive visit of the estate. Still, for focused learning and sensory exploration, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts on Château L’Éperon’s Vertical Degustation

This experience offers a rare opportunity to compare multiple vintages of “L’Éclat” in an intimate setting. The pairing with artisan cheeses adds a delicious dimension to the tasting, making it suitable for serious wine enthusiasts and curious newcomers alike. The knowledgeable guides and personalized approach ensure a rich educational experience.

If you appreciate exploring wine evolution and understanding terroir, this private vertical tasting at Château L’Éperon is a compelling choice. Just keep in mind the duration and focus—it’s a short but intense dive into Bordeaux winemaking.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts 1.5 hours, providing a concise yet comprehensive experience.

What vintages of “L’Éclat” are tasted?
The 2018, 2019, and 2020 vintages are included in this vertical tasting.

Is this a private or group experience?
It is a private group experience, ensuring personalized attention.

What languages are available for the tour?
Guides speak French, English, and Russian.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is at 701 Rte de Virles, at the entrance of the degustation room.

Are cheese pairings included?
Yes, a carefully selected cheese plate accompanies each vintage.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, with full refund available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

Is there an option to reserve without paying immediately?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later.

What makes this tour unique?
Its focus on multiple vintages of a single cuvée combined with artisan cheese pairing offers a deep, sensory exploration not often found in Bordeaux wine tastings.

Is this experience suitable for all ages?
While not explicitly stated, the tasting format suggests it is best suited for adults with an interest in wine and food pairing.

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