Auxerre may be famous for its stunning Gothic cathedral and medieval streets, but it also offers some exceptional wine-related experiences just outside the town. Chablis, in particular, is a highlight, with its crisp, mineral-driven wines. Whether you’re a wine novice or a seasoned connoisseur, the tours here are crafted to give you a taste of the region’s unique terroir. Our favorites include immersive vineyard visits, engaging tastings, and even a lively e-Méhari ride through the vineyards—something for every sort of traveler. And with reviews averaging high marks, these experiences promise memorable moments paired with authentic local flavor.
Below, you’ll find a quick overview of the best options, then a detailed look at what makes each one special. From guided tours to fun e-Méhari rides, each offers a chance to explore Chablis’ wine country in a way that suits your style.
Quick Overview
This list features three top-rated Chablis wine experiences around Auxerre:
- An in-depth, French-language vineyard visit with tastings, perfect for Francophones keen to learn about terroir (Visite et Dégustation Chablis Clotilde Davenne en français).
- An English-guided tour offering a similar vineyard experience with clear explanations for non-French speakers (Chablis Clotilde Davenne visit and tasting in english).
- A unique e-Méhari tour combining a fun vehicle ride with wine tastings, ideal for those seeking a mix of adventure and tasting (e-Mehari Tour and tasting Chablis Clotilde Davenne).
Now, let’s explore each experience in detail to see what makes them stand out.
1. Visite et Dégustation Chablis Clotilde Davenne en français
Starting with this French-language vineyard tour, it’s a solid choice for travelers comfortable with French. The tour lasts about 80 minutes and costs around $21 per person. During the visit, you’ll stroll through the vineyards at the foot of the estate, where the guide shares insights into terroir and local history. The highlight is discovering the nuances of the vintage process, followed by a tasting of wines produced on-site.
This experience is particularly appealing because of its focus on specific Appellations like Chablis, Saint-Bris, and Irancy. Visitors often praise the detailed explanation of how soil and climate influence the wine’s character. The intimate setting allows you to ask questions and really get a feel for the region’s winemaking traditions.
What makes this tour unique is its emphasis on education in the native language, making it ideal for francophones wanting a deeper understanding. It’s also one of the more affordable options with excellent reviews—averaging 4.8 out of 5 from 34 reviews.
Bottom Line: If you’re comfortable in French and love learning about wine in detail, this tour offers a well-rounded experience at a great price.
2. Chablis Clotilde Davenne visit and tasting in english
For those who prefer an English-speaking guide, this 80-minute tour is similarly priced at $21 per person. It begins at the Domaine Clotilde Davenne, where you’ll explore the vineyards with clear, accessible explanations about terroir and vintage. The guide takes you through the same key appellations—Chablis, Saint-Bris, and Irancy—and shares insights into the winemaking process.
The tour is designed to be straightforward and engaging, making it ideal for travelers who want to learn without the language barrier. The reviews are slightly fewer (9 reviews) but still excellent, with an average rating of 4.7/5. Travelers appreciate the “friendly, knowledgeable guide” and the fact that the tasting offers a good variety of wines representative of the region.
The itinerary is simple: start at Domaine Clotilde Davenne, go on an 80-minute guided tour, then finish back at the estate. This setup makes it easy to fit into a day of exploring or combine with other activities.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect if you want a comprehensive, approachable introduction to Chablis wines in English, with a good balance of education and tasting.
3. e-Mehari Tour and tasting Chablis Clotilde Davenne
For a more lively and adventurous experience, try the e-Méhari tour, which lasts about 2 hours and costs $100 per person. This guided ride takes you in a quirky electric vehicle through the vineyards, offering a fun way to see the landscape up close. The tour begins at the Boutique Clotilde Davenne and includes a 40-minute vineyard drive, followed by a 25-minute wine tasting of the estate’s best bottles.
What sets this apart is the combination of sustainable transportation and a relaxed atmosphere, making it appealing for those who want to combine sightseeing with wine tasting. Reviews are limited but perfect, with a 5/5 rating from 2 satisfied travelers. It’s especially suitable for visitors seeking a less formal, more interactive experience.
The e-Méhari ride is relatively short but memorable, providing an intimate look at the vineyards with the bonus of tasting wines in a cozy setting. The experience works well for couples, small groups, or anyone interested in a blend of fun and flavor.
Bottom Line: If you’re after an energetic, eco-friendly way to explore Chablis vineyards while tasting excellent wines, this ride offers a distinctive experience worth considering.
How to Choose
When selecting the best tour in Auxerre, consider your language preference, budget, and interest in adventure. If you’re fluent in French and eager to deepen your understanding, the Visite et Dégustation Chablis Clotilde Davenne en français provides detailed insights at a budget-friendly price. For non-French speakers, the Chablis Clotilde Davenne visit and tasting in english offers a similar experience with the comfort of an English guide.
For those who want a more active, engaging outing, especially if you enjoy vehicles or outdoor activities, the e-Mehari Tour and tasting delivers a memorable, fun exploration with wine tasting.
Think about how much time you want to dedicate—if you prefer a quick, informative visit, Tours #1 and #2 are ideal. If you’re looking for something more playful and distinctive, go for the e-Méhari experience. Booking early is recommended, especially in high season, as these tours tend to fill up fast.
Final Thoughts
Auxerre and the surrounding Chablis region offer a fantastic range of wine tours that cater to different interests and language needs. For those wanting in-depth knowledge and native-language explanations, Tours #1 and #2 deliver excellent value and quality. If you’re looking for something a little different—more active and fun—the e-Méhari ride adds a memorable twist to your wine experience.
No matter which you choose, these tours promise a taste of real regional character, combining beautiful scenery with top-quality wines. Be sure to book ahead, especially during peak travel months, and enjoy your journey into the world of Chablis.