France Wine Tours
Highlights of France Wine Tours
- Immerse yourself in the grandeur of the famed Château Margaux in Bordeaux, an architectural masterpiece nestled amidst verdant vineyards. Witness the exquisite château that is a testament to the region's rich wine history and stroll through the vibrant vineyards that produce some of the world's finest wines.
- Be a part of the bustling atmosphere of a traditional wine auction in Beaune, the capital of wine in Burgundy. Absorb the lively spirit of the auction while savoring some of the region's most excellent Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays.
- Savor the effervescence of a glass of sparkling Champagne in the historic cellars of Moët & Chandon in Épernay.
- Discover the age-old tradition of Champagne making and taste the world-renowned bubbly in the very place it was born.
- Indulge in a sunset picnic in the romantic vineyards of the Loire Valley, accompanied by a bottle of the region's elegant Cabernet Franc. Absorb the mesmerizing hues of the sunset, painting a magical panorama over the grape-laden vineyards.
- Relish the harmonious pairing of gourmet cuisine and expertly selected wines at a Michelin-starred restaurant in the Rhône Valley. Allow your palate to embark on a gastronomic journey guided by the deft hands of world-class chefs and sommeliers.
- Uncover the timeless art of winemaking in the centuries-old cellars of Côtes de Provence. Delve deep into the labyrinth of cellars and wine caves, absorbing the rich history steeped into their stone walls while tasting the renowned Rosé wines of the region.
Travel Tips for France Wine Tours
- French vineyards operate on different schedules than you may be accustomed to. Many are not open to the public daily and even have specific hours for English tours. Therefore, verify the wineries' operating hours before your visit.
- Saturdays are the busiest day for wineries, so try to plan your visit during other days of the week to avoid large crowds.
When tasting, start with the whites, followed by dry wines, roses, and then reds. The order is important as lighter wines will help you better appreciate the heavier ones. - Remember to spit the wine into the provided bucket after swilling if you do not want to look like a newbie. Even if you are not swallowing the wine, its fumes will quickly go to your head, especially on a hot summer day.
- Do not go overboard with the tasting. It is difficult for anyone to taste more than three or four wines without getting confused and losing their sense of taste. Keep it simple and learn to know what you like so you can use your vocabulary to explain and remember different tastes and smells.
- While you are not under any obligation to buy wine after a tour or tasting at a French winery, it is always nice to show your appreciation by bringing home a few bottles.
- Seek out smaller wineries. They are often family-owned, operated, and less busy — meaning you may have a private tasting and more personalized attention.