Bordeaux Super Saver Wine Tasting class and St Emilion region

A Complete Guide to the Bordeaux Super Saver: Wine, History, and Stunning Villages

If you’re considering a wine-focused day in Bordeaux, the Bordeaux Super Saver promises an approachable yet comprehensive experience. This tour blends a morning of wine tasting in Bordeaux’s city center with an afternoon exploring the enchanting, UNESCO-listed village of Saint-Emilion. From guided tastings to picturesque vineyard views, it’s designed for those wanting to deepen their wine knowledge without the fuss of planning every detail.

What we really love about this experience is its small-group setup, which means more personal attention and fewer crowds. The expert guides are consistently praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making even complex wine topics accessible. Plus, the inclusion of two winery visits, paired with a casual lunch and tastings of at least 11 different wines, offers excellent value for the price.

A potential consideration is that the tour involves a fair amount of time in the van—so if you’re not keen on long bus rides or prefer more independent exploration, this might feel a bit structured. Still, for most, the carefully curated stops and engaging guides compensate for that.

This tour suits wine lovers eager to learn, first-time visitors wanting an overview of Bordeaux’s wine scene, and travelers craving a taste of historic Saint-Emilion in a relaxed setting. It balances education with enjoyment and offers a well-rounded day out.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Small group capped at 8 ensures intimacy and tailored conversations.
• Diverse Tasting Opportunities: Sample 11 wines, paired with bread, cheese, and cured meats.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Remy, Chloe, Hugo, and Quentin receive high praise for their friendliness and knowledge.
• Historic and Picturesque Stops: Visit renowned wineries and the stunning medieval village of Saint-Emilion.
• Flexible and Convenient: Includes transport, tasting sessions, and a lovely lunch, all for a reasonable price.
• Ideal for: Wine enthusiasts, history lovers, and those seeking a comprehensive Bordeaux day trip.

The Experience: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Starting in Bordeaux

The day kicks off at 3 Rue d’Enghien at 10:30 am, where a small-group of no more than 8 travelers gathers. Your guide, often praised for their knowledge, begins by setting a relaxed tone. You’ll be introduced to the basics of French wine, getting familiar with aromas, flavors, and what makes Bordeaux and other regions unique.

The first highlight is a 2-hour wine-tasting session in a cozy Bordeaux apartment. Here, you’ll taste wines from various top regions, including Côtes du Rhône, Burgundy, and the Loire Valley. Reviewers repeatedly mention how engaging and interactive the session is, with one noting it’s a “wine class” that feels more like a fun workshop than a typical tasting. You’ll nibble on bread, cheese, and cured meats — the perfect accompaniment to the wines.

Lunch and Transition

Post-tasting, you’ll enjoy a casual lunch at a traditional apartment in the city center. Lunch options include sandwiches and light fare, often described as simple but satisfying. One reviewer called it “yummy,” and it offers a great chance to relax, reflect on the morning, and chat with fellow travelers.

Afternoon in Saint-Emilion

After lunch, the van takes you to Saint-Emilion, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its medieval charm and extensive vineyards. The drive from Bordeaux is roughly 30-45 minutes—long enough to enjoy the scenic countryside and get prepped for what’s next.

The first stop in Saint-Emilion is a visit to a prestigious Château where you’ll undergo a guided tour of the vineyards and cellars. Expect to taste 3 to 4 wines directly at the winery, often highlighted by knowledgeable guides who clearly love sharing their craft. Reviewers like Donal loved that the staff was “helpful and informative,” making each tasting both educational and enjoyable.

Next, you’ll explore the picturesque village itself, walking through narrow cobbled streets, admiring its medieval architecture, and soaking in the atmosphere. Many guests mention how the town’s charm makes for a perfect background for photos and wandering, with one noting it was a “spectacular” highlight.

Final Winery Visits and End of Day

The last visit includes visits to two additional Châteaux for more tastings, typically with 2-3 wines per stop. Some reviewers comment on the limited pours at each winery—tiny tastings but still enough to appreciate the differences. If you’re keen on buying a bottle, note that the tastings are generally for sampling only; purchasing options may be limited.

The tour wraps up back in Bordeaux, usually around 6 pm, leaving you with a solid understanding of French wines, plenty of photos, and perhaps some new favorites.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Knowledgeable Guides

From Remy to Quentin, reviewers highlight guides’ passion and expertise. They’re often praised for weaving regional history, wine science, and personal anecdotes into the experience. For example, one reviewer appreciated how Hugo integrated elements from the tasting into the vineyard visits, making the learning seamless.

Authentic Wine Experience

Sampling 11 different wines from renowned regions at multiple stops gives you a genuine taste of France’s wine diversity. The pairings with cheese and cured meats elevate the experience and make it feel like a proper wine tasting rather than a hurried sampling.

Scenic and Cultural Highlights

Visiting Saint-Emilion’s medieval streets is a treat for both the eyes and the soul. The quiet charm of this UNESCO-listed village, combined with the vineyard vistas, makes for a day that is both relaxing and visually stunning.

Small Group Intimacy

Limiting the tour to eight guests means less distraction and more interaction with guides. This setup often leads to lively conversations and personalized attention, which many travelers find enhances the overall experience.

Value for Money

At $173.27 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded day of tastings, sightseeing, and education. Considering the multiple tasting sessions, guided winery tours, lunch, and transport, most find it offers excellent value, especially when compared to booking separate activities or private tastings.

Potential Drawbacks

While most reviews are glowing, some travelers mention the long van rides and limited time at each winery. Tasting pours are often small, and some might wish for more freedom to explore Saint-Emilion on their own. However, for those who prioritize a structured, guided experience with expert insights, these points are minor.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is perfect if you’re new to wine or simply want a rundown of Bordeaux wine culture. It’s also excellent for history buffs who appreciate the story behind Bordeaux and Saint-Emilion’s vineyards. The small-group format makes it suitable for travelers who prefer a more personal, less commercialized outing. If you’re craving a full day of tasting, sightseeing, and learning, this tour hits all the right notes.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, this tour starts and ends at the meeting point in Bordeaux.

What’s the minimum age to participate?
You need to be at least 18 years old to drink alcohol on this tour.

How many wines will I taste?
You’ll sample at least 11 wines throughout the day, with multiple tastings at each stop.

Is lunch provided?
Yes, lunch is included and typically consists of sandwiches or light fare, often enjoyed at a cozy apartment in Bordeaux.

How long is the drive from Bordeaux to Saint-Emilion?
The journey takes about 30-45 minutes, providing scenic views of the French countryside.

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
While the tastings are optional, the focus is on wine, so non-drinkers may want to opt out or simply enjoy the sightseeing and learning components.

Can I buy wine during the tour?
Purchasing options are limited during tastings, but some wineries offer the chance to buy bottles directly.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 8 people, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

In short, the Bordeaux Super Saver blends education, cultural sightseeing, and wine tasting into a day that’s both fun and informative. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned wine lover, you’ll leave with a better understanding of the region’s wines, a few new favorites, and plenty of memories. It’s a carefully curated experience that balances guided learning with authentic charm — perfect for making the most of your Bordeaux trip.