From Bordeaux: St-Emilion Day Tour with Tastings and Lunch

Exploring Bordeaux’s Wine Country: A Review of the Saint-Emilion Day Tour with Tastings and Lunch

If you’re visiting Bordeaux and have a taste for good wine, history, and scenic beauty, a day trip to Saint-Emilion is hard to beat. While I haven’t personally taken this specific tour, reviews and descriptions paint a picture of a well-balanced experience that combines educational wine tastings, charming medieval streets, and a touch of luxury with a picnic lunch at a château.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to visit three different wineries—each offering unique wines and insights. Second, the small group size (limited to 8 people) ensures a relaxed, personalized atmosphere. Third, the guide’s knowledge and friendliness shine through in reviews, making the day both informative and fun.

That said, potential travelers should consider the outdoor nature of the tour and the need for comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to walk around Saint-Emilion’s cobblestone streets. Also, since children under 16 aren’t allowed and pets aren’t permitted, this experience is best suited for adults looking for a wine-focused day. Overall, it’s a fantastic choice for wine lovers, history buffs, or anyone wanting to see the beauty of Bordeaux’s vineyard-region in a single day.

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Key Points

Authentic Wine Tastings: Visit 3 wineries with a total of 8 tastings, including grand cru classé wines.
Charming Village Exploration: Guided walk through Saint-Emilion, a UNESCO-listed medieval town.
Scenic & Comfortable Transport: Air-conditioned van with a small group size for intimacy and ease.
Gourmet Picnic: Enjoy fresh local products, charcuterie, cheese, and wine at a château.
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Xavier, Renee, Margot, and Jeremy enhance the experience.
Flexible & Transparent Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund; pay later to keep plans open.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: A Deep Dive into What You’re Getting

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Departure & Introduction in Bordeaux

Your day begins at Olala Bordeaux, centrally located near tram stops, making it easy to reach. From there, a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan takes you out of the city and into the rolling vineyards of Saint-Emilion. Expect a relaxed 7-hour journey, with plenty of scenic views en route that set the tone for the day ahead.

Saint-Emilion: A UNESCO Treasure

The first stop is the picturesque village of Saint-Emilion, famed for its medieval architecture and underground monolithic church. Your guide will walk you through its winding streets, pointing out landmarks and sharing stories about its history as the birthplace of Bordeaux’s wine culture. Reviewers often mention how the guide’s local knowledge makes the visit more meaningful—Renee, for instance, impresses with his detail and engaging stories.

First Winery Visit & Tasting

The tour kicks off with a visit to a grand Château, where you get to taste three different wines. Reviewers describe the diversity of wines as “unique” and “fabulous,” often accompanied by engaging explanations about the grape varieties and winemaking techniques. The owner’s hospitality and willingness to share insights into their craft create a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Some mention that the wines from this first Château are of a higher-market level, making it a real treat for those seeking premium wines.

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Picnic Lunch at the Château

Next, it’s time for a picnic—an unexpected highlight for many. The lunch features fresh, local products like cheeses, charcuterie, and artisanal bread, served in jars and with a glass of wine. Several reviewers appreciated the quality and authenticity, with one saying, “the cheese and meats were delicious,” and another noting the picnic’s relaxed, outdoor setting. The wine paired with the meal adds a layer of enjoyment, making it feel like a taste of French luxury without the hefty restaurant bill.

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Second Château & Tasting Experience

After lunch, the journey continues to a second Château. This visit offers a different perspective, focusing on the specificities of the Saint-Emilion appellation—grape varieties and winemaking techniques. Expect to taste two wines and learn how they’re crafted. Reviewers like April emphasize the personable nature of the host and their enthusiasm, which makes the process accessible and engaging.

Final Château & Farewell to the Wineries

The last stop is another Château, where you’ll enjoy three more wines. This final tasting often caps the day on a high note, with knowledgeable staff and a warm atmosphere. Many mention that this last Château offered a balanced selection, leaving them with a comprehensive understanding of the region’s diversity.

Return & Reflection

The tour winds down as you head back to Bordeaux, usually arriving in the late afternoon or early evening. The journey back provides time to reflect on the day and share impressions with fellow travelers, many of whom, like one reviewer, share how much they learned and enjoyed.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

The Guides: Knowledgeable & Friendly

Multiple reviews rave about guides like Xavier, Renee, Margot, and Jeremy, highlighting their passion, patience, and local expertise. Xavier, for example, is described as a “real treat” with a wealth of knowledge, while Margot is “calm, friendly, and extremely knowledgeable.” Their genuine enthusiasm makes each winery visit more than just tasting—they become stories and lessons.

The Wine Selections: Quality & Variety

With visits to three different wineries, you’re tasting a total of eight wines, including grand cru classé options. Reviewers repeatedly mention the wines’ quality and diversity, noting that many of these wines are special finds they wouldn’t encounter on their own. This curated approach ensures you gain a broad perspective on the region’s offerings.

The Village & Cultural Experience

Saint-Emilion’s charm is undeniable, with narrow cobbled streets, ancient ruins, and a welcoming atmosphere. The guided walk enhances your understanding of its historical significance, while the limited time ensures you don’t feel rushed. Reviewers often say it leaves them wanting more, but the key sights are well covered.

The Value for Money

Considering the inclusions—transport, three winery visits, tastings, and a picnic lunch—the experience offers good value. Many reviewers agree that the quality of the wines and the personalized service justify the cost, especially when compared to the expense of private tastings or meals.

Practical Details and Tips

Transportation & Group Size

Traveling in a small, air-conditioned van keeps the experience intimate and comfortable. The group size, capped at 8, means fewer distractions and more personalized attention from guides. Reviewers consistently mention how this format enhances the overall enjoyment.

Duration & Timing

At about 7 hours, it’s a substantial half-day experience that balances sightseeing, tasting, and relaxation. Starting times vary—so check availability—but most tours are designed to maximize the time spent in Saint-Emilion without feeling rushed.

What to Wear & Bring

Comfortable shoes are a must—many sites involve walking cobbled streets or vineyard tours. Weather-appropriate clothing is advised, especially in summer when it can get hot outdoors. Bringing a water bottle is recommended, not just for hydration but also as part of the eco-conscious effort to reduce plastic waste.

Food & Drink

The picnic lunch is a highlight, featuring fresh, local products. Still, some travelers might wish for a small cheese plate at the second Château or a sit-down meal at a restaurant—they’ll want to plan accordingly.

Accessibility & Restrictions

Sorry, pets and unaccompanied minors aren’t allowed, so plan accordingly. The tour is conducted in English, making communication straightforward.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, children under 16 aren’t permitted, making it an adult-focused wine experience.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are essential. A water bottle is also recommended, especially if it’s a sunny day.

How many wines will I taste?
You’ll taste a total of 8 wines across three wineries—3 wines at the first Château, 2 at the second, and 3 at the last.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Where do I meet the guide?
At Olala Bordeaux, 2ter rue Mably, accessible via tram lines B, C, and D at the Quinconces stop.

Is the tour rain or shine?
Most of the outdoor elements are weather-dependent, so dress accordingly. The schedule may vary if the weather is poor, but the experience remains quality-focused.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This Saint-Emilion day tour from Bordeaux is perfect for those who want a balanced mix of wine, culture, and scenic beauty. The small group size and knowledgeable guides create an intimate, engaging atmosphere that feels personal rather than commercial. If you’re a wine enthusiast, the diversity and quality of tastings will satisfy even seasoned connoisseurs.

History buffs and architecture lovers will appreciate the guided walk through Saint-Emilion’s historic streets, while food lovers will savor the expertly curated picnic—an authentic taste of local flavors. For travelers seeking a hassle-free, all-inclusive experience that combines education with leisure, this tour offers strong value and memorable moments.

While it’s not suited for children under 16 or those with pets, adults looking to deepen their appreciation of Bordeaux wines and enjoy a relaxed day out will find this experience well worth the cost. It’s an excellent way to learn about one of France’s most picturesque and celebrated wine regions—without the stress of planning or navigating alone.