Bordeaux: Half-Day Private Natural Wine Tour & Tasting

If you’ve ever wondered what makes natural wines different from your standard bottle, this Bordeaux tour offers a fascinating peek behind the curtain of the city’s emerging natural wine movement. Instead of the usual wine-tasting experience, this is a journey into bold flavors, unconventional techniques, and the passionate philosophy of small-scale winemakers.

What we love most about this experience is its focus on authenticity—sampling at least six natural wines that showcase orange, Pet Nat, and Claret varieties, all made with minimal intervention. We also appreciate the friendly, hands-on approach of the guides, who are eager to share their love for natural wine and sustainable practices. The vineyard tour itself is an added bonus, offering a glimpse of the organic vineyard life and the chance to meet the chickens, ducks, and geese that help keep the farm lively.

One possible consideration is that the tour lasts only 1.5 hours, so it’s a quick hit of natural wine goodness. While this is perfect for a half-day activity, if you’re looking for an in-depth exploration or a full-day experience, you might want to consider additional options. This tour suits adventurous wine lovers, eco-conscious travelers, or anyone curious about the new wave of winemaking in Bordeaux.

Contents show

Key Points

Authentic Natural Wines: Experience a curated tasting of six+ unfiltered, low-intervention wines.
Educational & Engaging: Learn the differences between natural, organic, and conventional wines.
Vineyard & Farm Tour: Get a behind-the-scenes look at sustainable practices and meet farm animals.
Small Private Group: Enjoy a personalized experience with passionate guides in a private setting.
Convenient Location: Just 25 minutes from Bordeaux city, perfect for a half-day excursion.
Accessible & Flexible: Suitable for most, with options for live guides in English and Russian.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

This Bordeaux natural wine tour is designed to stand apart from typical tastings. Hosted by Chateau Shuette, a producer committed to low-intervention winemaking, the experience offers a well-rounded mix of vineyard exploration, education, and tasting. It’s a good choice for travelers who want more than just sipping—the focus on authenticity and sustainability makes it a meaningful outing.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Bordeaux

Starting Point and Logistics

The experience kicks off at 37 Chem. du Caderot, a location that’s nearby enough from Bordeaux city (about 25 minutes by car or taxi). The tour operates as a private group, meaning you’ll enjoy a more personalized and engaging interaction without the hustle and bustle of larger groups. The duration is 1.5 hours, so it fits conveniently into an afternoon or morning schedule, with flexible start times depending on availability.

The Vineyard & Farm Walk

Visitors are invited to stroll through the organic vineyards, gaining insights into the sustainable farming practices that influence the wines. The emphasis on organic viticulture reflects a conscious choice to respect the terroir and reduce chemical intervention. As one reviewer mentions, “We loved the way the guides explained their low-intervention philosophy—it’s clear they truly care about the environment and quality.”

Beyond the vines, you’ll visit the fermentation station—an unconventional feature that offers a peek into experimental winemaking techniques. It’s the kind of detail that appeals to wine geeks and curious travelers alike. Expect to see and possibly try some unexpected fermentation trials, adding an extra layer of interest.

Tasting the Natural Wines

The highlight is definitely the tasting session. You’ll sample at least six natural wines, including sparkling rosé (Pet Nat), orange wines, and modern Bordeaux reds. This diversity lets you compare styles and understand what makes natural wine unique—less clarity, often cloudier appearance, and complex, earthy flavors.

One guest remarked, “The wines were expressive and different from what I usually drink at mainstream wineries.” The guided tasting provides background on each wine’s production, emphasizing the low-intervention process, the absence of additives, and the natural fermentation methods.

More Great Tours Nearby

Engaging with the Winemakers

What sets this tour apart is the direct interaction with the passionate staff. They’re eager to explain their philosophies and answer questions, making the experience not just educational but genuinely engaging. You’ll gain a deeper appreciation of the challenges and joys of making natural wine.

Prefer keeping things personal? Here are more private experiences we've reviewed in Bordeaux

Meeting the Farm Animals

Adding a charming, family-friendly touch, visitors also get to meet the chickens, ducks, and geese. This animal interaction isn’t just cute—these animals play a role in the farm’s eco-friendly approach, helping to manage pests and contribute to a balanced ecosystem.

Price & Value

At a price that includes 6+ natural wines and spirits samples, this tour offers good value. It’s an affordable way to explore Bordeaux’s new-wave winemaking scene without committing to an entire day or expensive cellar tour. Keep in mind, transportation isn’t included, so planning your transfer is advisable.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This natural wine experience caters well to adventurous wine lovers keen to explore beyond traditional Bordeaux reds. Eco-conscious travelers will appreciate the sustainable practices, while curious drinkers will find the educational component enlightening. If you’re short on time but want a meaningful, authentic taste of Bordeaux’s emerging natural wine scene, this tour hits the spot.

It’s less suited for families with children under 18 or those seeking a comprehensive wine education. However, the private group setting and flexible scheduling make it accessible and enjoyable for most.

Practical Details & Tips

Duration & Availability: Only 1.5 hours, so it fits neatly into an afternoon plan. Availability varies, so check ahead.
Languages: Guided in English and Russian, catering to a broad audience.
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, though check in advance if you have special needs.
Booking & Cancellations: Fully cancellable up to 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind.
No private transportation included: Plan your travel to the starting point accordingly.
Not suitable for children under 18: Focused on wine tasting, so minors are not permitted.

Final Thoughts

This Bordeaux Half-Day Private Natural Wine Tour offers a fresh perspective on the region’s wine culture. With its focus on natural, low-intervention wines, sustainable practices, and engaging farm tour, it’s particularly appealing for those wanting authentic, educational experiences. The small group size and personal touch from passionate guides help make this more than just a tasting—it’s a small voyage into the world of modern Bordeaux winemaking.

For travelers seeking a memorable, off-the-beaten-path experience that combines flavor, philosophy, and a bit of farmyard fun, this tour is a compelling pick.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
Since the activity is centered around wine tasting, it’s primarily designed for those who enjoy wine, but non-drinkers can still enjoy the vineyard walk and farm visit.

Are children allowed on this tour?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 18, as the focus is on wine tastings and adult experiences.

What language are the guides available in?
Guides offer tours in both English and Russian, making it accessible for a diverse group of travelers.

How many wines will I taste?
You will sample at least six natural wines, including sparkling rosé, orange wines, and Bordeaux reds.

Is transportation included in the price?
No, transportation isn’t provided, so you should plan your journey to the starting location accordingly.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

What makes natural wine different from conventional wine?
Natural wines are crafted with minimal intervention, no additives, and natural fermentation, resulting in more expressive, often cloudy, and earthy flavors compared to conventional wines.

This tour offers a genuine glimpse into Bordeaux’s innovative side, perfect for those wanting to taste, learn, and experience the region’s sustainable winemaking movement firsthand.