Chardonnay Masterclass – Wine tasting in Dijon

If you’re visiting Dijon and have a taste for wine, this Chardonnay Masterclass offers more than just a sip or two. It’s a well-crafted, engaging experience that combines education, tasting, and the chance to uncover the secrets behind some of Burgundy’s most famous wines—all in the heart of the city.

What really makes this tour stand out is its professional guidance—led by expert Maître Caviste Adrien Tirelli, who brings both passion and deep knowledge to each session. We’re also fans of the chance to learn how to read Burgundy wine labels, understand terroir classifications, and explore wines from village-level to Grand Cru. And all these insights are packed into a manageable 45-minute session that’s perfect for those short on time but eager to deepen their wine appreciation.

Of course, the price—around $41.50—might seem steep for a quick tasting, but when you consider the expert explanations, the quality of wines, and the small group size (max 6 travelers), it’s a solid value. The only thing to keep in mind? This isn’t a full-blown vineyard tour or food pairing experience, so if you’re after a comprehensive wine journey, you might want to look further.

This masterclass is ideal for curious travelers eager to grasp Burgundy’s wine culture, those keen to improve their tasting skills, or anyone wanting a memorable, authentic experience in Dijon. If you love wine but dislike stuffy, overly technical tastings, this fun, approachable session is likely to be right up your alley.

Key Points

• Expert-led with a professional guiding you through Burgundy wines and terroirs
• Focused on Burgundy Chardonnay, from village to Grand Cru
• Educational content on reading labels and understanding classification
• Small group size guarantees personal attention and interaction
• Includes 4 Burgundy wines for tasting, offering variety and quality
• UNESCO-listed Climats provide cultural context for wine production

The Dijon Chardonnay Masterclass is a great way to turn a simple wine tasting into an insightful, compact educational experience. Led by Adrien Tirelli, a Maître Caviste and ambassador for Burgundy’s Climats, the session balances fun and learning perfectly.

You’ll love how the tasting isn’t just about drinking—it’s about understanding. Adrien’s explanations about classification, terroirs, and grape varieties make the wines come alive. Guests have praised the passionate guidance of the team, especially Mateo, who brings energy and enthusiasm that keeps the session lively and engaging. One reviewer noted, “He was incredible. I learned so much about wine and how to tell where each wine is grown,” highlighting how accessible and informative the guide can be.

The tasting itself features four wines—from village-level to Grand Cru—giving you a clear sense of Burgundy’s diversity. Expect to explore the nuances in taste, aroma, and wine structure, which are often hard for amateurs to identify without expert help. The wines are carefully selected, and the experience is designed to give you a solid understanding of Burgundy’s Climats, recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Another perk is how responsive the team is; even when a slight mishap occurred with a booking, they quickly adapted, ensuring guests still enjoyed a full, enriching experience. This level of care and flexibility adds value, especially if you’re traveling and want reliable, friendly service.

What You’ll Learn

During the 45-minute session, you’ll pick up skills like tasting like a pro, which involves noting aroma, taste, and structure. You’ll also learn how to read a Burgundy label—a skill that’s surprisingly useful when shopping or ordering in a restaurant. Plus, the guide will share insights into how wines are classified in Burgundy, helping you appreciate what makes a village wine different from a Grand Cru.

What’s Included (and What’s Not)

For $41.47, the highlight is the tasting of four Burgundy wines, paired with expert commentary. Since lunch isn’t included, it’s best to plan a meal beforehand or save your appetite for a proper dinner afterward. The tour is conducted at Les Clos Vivants – Maître Caviste, conveniently located and well-connected to public transportation, making it easy to include in your Dijon itinerary.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of six travelers, the experience feels intimate and allows for plenty of questions and interaction. Several reviews mention how the bilingual host and the small group create a welcoming, inclusive environment—especially helpful for international visitors or those new to Burgundy wines.

The experience begins at Les Clos Vivants, a charming wine shop and tasting space. Once seated, the guide introduces the wines, starting from village-level Chardonnay and working up to Grand Cru. You’ll receive detailed explanations about each wine’s origin, grape variety, and what makes its terroir distinct.

The tasting unfolds with a focus on sensory skills—learning to identify aromas, palate textures, and flavor profiles. Mateo, in particular, garnered praise for his energetic, enthusiastic approach, which made complex topics accessible. One guest mentioned, “He was very energetic and enthusiastic about everything we talked about,” showing how a lively guide can transform a short session into a memorable learning experience.

Throughout, you’ll gain a better understanding of Burgundy’s Climats and their UNESCO World Heritage designation, giving you cultural context that elevates your appreciation of each sip.

The wines chosen highlight Burgundy’s diversity, from simple village wines to those with Grand Cru prestige. Guests have shared how the guide’s explanations helped them learn to taste wines like professionals, picking up on subtle differences and understanding classifications.

One reviewer commented, “I walked in knowing nothing and walked out basically an expert,” which reflects how this masterclass can demystify Burgundy wine labels and classifications quickly and clearly.

The tasting is designed to be informative without being overwhelming, making it suitable even for those new to wine. The small group setting fosters conversation, making it easy to ask questions or get personal tips on wine tasting techniques.

The Overall Value

At just over $40, this experience offers excellent value considering the quality of wines, expert guidance, and cultural insights. While it’s not a full tour of vineyards or a multi-hour deep dive, it’s a concentrated dose of Burgundy wine knowledge packed into a fun, convivial session.

Many guests found it to be a perfect introduction to Burgundy wines, especially for those planning to visit local vineyards or simply wanting to understand what makes Burgundy wines so special. The combination of tasting four very different wines along with expert commentary creates a comprehensive yet manageable mini-lesson on Burgundy’s climats and classification systems.

This masterclass suits travelers who appreciate wine and want to understand it better—whether for future tasting adventures or to enhance their appreciation of Burgundy wines. It’s especially good for those short on time but eager to learn, as well as anyone interested in the region’s UNESCO-listed terroirs.

If you’re hoping for a full vineyard visit or food pairing, this isn’t the right fit, but for pure wine education and tasting, it hits the mark. The friendly, knowledgeable guides make it accessible regardless of your wine knowledge level.

In all, this Chardonnay Masterclass in Dijon offers an engaging, educational peek into Burgundy’s wine world. The small-group format, expert guidance, and focus on Burgundy’s Climats make it stand out among many tastings. It’s a fantastic value for those curious about wine, eager to learn, or simply looking for a memorable experience in Dijon.

While it doesn’t substitute for a full vineyard tour or a comprehensive wine course, it provides an excellent foundation—making Burgundy’s wines less mysterious and more approachable. The combination of quality wines, passionate guides, and cultural context makes this a standout choice for any wine lover visiting Dijon.

Perfect for:

• Travelers wanting a quick yet informative Burgundy wine experience
• Those interested in understanding wine labels and classifications
• Visitors who enjoy small, interactive tasting sessions
• Anyone eager to learn about Burgundy’s UNESCO-listed terroirs
• Wine enthusiasts looking to deepen their tasting skills

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Yes, it’s designed to be accessible, offering explanations that help even novices understand Burgundy wines without feeling overwhelmed.

How many wines will I taste?
You will taste four Burgundy wines, ranging from village level to Grand Cru, offering variety and insight into different terroirs.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the tasting of four wines, guided explanations, and the intimate setting. Lunch is not included.

How long does the tour last?
The tasting lasts approximately 45 minutes, making it perfect for a quick but meaningful learning session.

Is the group size small?
Yes, with a maximum of six travelers, ensuring personalized attention and interaction.

Can I participate if I don’t speak French?
Absolutely, the experience is conducted bilingually, accommodating English speakers and French speakers alike.

Where does the tour start?
At Les Clos Vivants – Maître Caviste, located at 1 Rue Musette, in central Dijon.

What should I wear?
Comfortable casual attire is fine—just be prepared for a seated tasting session.

Is there any flexibility with cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind in case your plans change.

Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or a curious beginner, this masterclass makes Burgundy’s Chardonnay accessible and enjoyable. It’s a wonderful blend of education, taste, and cultural insight, perfect for adding a meaningful touch to your Dijon visit.