Private Beaujolais wine tour

If you’re dreaming of a day filled with exquisite wines, stunning scenery, and insider knowledge, this private Beaujolais wine tour might just be the experience you’re after. While we haven’t personally taken this journey, it’s clear from glowing reviews and detailed descriptions that this tour offers a well-balanced blend of authentic vineyard visits, educational insights, and memorable dining—plus the comfort of private transportation.

What we love about this tour? First, the chance to visit small, family-run wineries that showcase the passionate craftsmanship behind Beaujolais wines. Second, the opportunity to taste vintage wines from various decades, which helps you understand how the terroir and winemaking styles have evolved. Third, the inclusion of a gourmet picnic with regional cheeses and seasonal foods, set against breathtaking views. The only consideration? The price tag might seem high, but the personalized experience, expert guidance, and quality tastings make it worth every euro for serious wine enthusiasts or those wanting a luxurious, authentic day out.

This experience is perfect for travelers who appreciate wine, enjoy scenic drives, and want a personalized, educational tasting without the chaos of large groups. It’s especially ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone looking to deepen their understanding of French wine in a relaxed, yet refined setting.

Key Points

• Personalized Private Experience: Only your group participates, ensuring tailored attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Expert Guidance: Led by a WSET3-educated wine merchant, Hugo, who shares deep insights into French wine nuances.
• Visit Small-Scale Wineries: Focus on biodynamic and traditional producers, highlighting the diversity of Beaujolais.
• Vintage & Modern Tasting: Sample wines from the 1960s to today, understanding the region’s evolution over time.
• Breathtaking Scenery & UNESCO Heritage: Mont Brouilly viewpoint offers spectacular views and terroir context.
• Gourmet Picnic: Lunch includes cheeses and seasonal local products, paired with wines, at a beautiful hillside spot.

An In-Depth Look at the Beaujolais Private Tour

Starting the Day: Pickup and First Winery Visit

The day kicks off at 9:00 am, with pickup at your hotel—either by Tesla, Mercedes E-Class, or a larger Mercedes V Van, depending on your group size. This comfortable transportation sets a luxurious tone for the rest of your day.

Our first stop is the Fleurie winery, located in the heart of the ten regional crus. This visit is a fantastic way to start because the winery focuses on biodynamic and natural wine production, giving you a taste of modern, sustainable practices. The site is a hub for the newer generation of Beaujolais producers, which combines tradition with innovative techniques.

During this visit, you’ll spend about an hour to an hour and a quarter with the winemakers, learning about their history and the specific terroir of Fleurie. Expect to taste around six wines, including at least one old vintage, providing a glimpse into the evolution of wine styles over time. Reviewers mention that Hugo always ensures the visit is engaging, emphasizing the passion of these small producers.

A Step Back in Time: Villie-Morgon and the Vintage Tastings

Next, it’s time to explore the historic winemaking methods at a winery in Villie-Morgon, where vines and vinification still follow practices from the 1970s and 80s. This visit offers a fascinating contrast to the first—here, you’ll see how winemaking has been preserved or subtly modernized by different generations.

Again, you’ll taste roughly six wines, including vintage bottles from decades past, which allows you to compare styles and understand regional shifts. Reviewers highlight Hugo’s storytelling, which makes these tastings not just educational but also highly personable. The focus here on tradition helps illuminate why Beaujolais has maintained its regional identity despite changing trends.

A Scenic Break: Mont Brouilly

Midday, you’ll visit Mont Brouilly, a scenic viewpoint at the top of a mountain. This spot is more than just a picture-perfect vista; it helps you understand the unique terroirs that earn Beaujolais its UNESCO World Heritage status.

Expect around 30 minutes at this stop, which offers sweeping views of the rolling vineyards below. If you’re a fan of landscape photography or simply want a moment to breathe in the scenery, this is the highlight. The views also contextualize the vineyards and show why certain slopes and soils produce such distinctive wines.

Gourmet Picnic with a View

After soaking in the scenery, you’ll enjoy a three-hour hillside lunch featuring a selection of regional cheeses, seasonal gourmet products, and wines from different eras. Set in a lovely outdoor or semi-outdoor location, this picnic is a real treat—both for the palate and the soul.

Reviewers have raved about the quality and variety of this meal, noting it’s “delicious” and thoughtfully paired with wines from the 1960s to modern times. Hugo explains the significance of each wine as you sample, making this not just a meal but an educational tasting experience.

Final Wine Tasting and Return

Post-lunch, you’ll have one last tasting opportunity, often focusing on wines from the recent decades, before heading back to Lyon around 4:00-5:00 pm. The private chauffeur ensures a comfortable, stress-free journey home, leaving you with plenty of time to reflect on your day.

Practical Details: Transportation, Timing, and Value

The private transport options—Tesla or Mercedes—are a notable perk, especially considering the premium price. They provide a quiet, luxurious ride that makes the day feel special and personal. The total duration is approximately 8 to 9 hours, balancing ample vineyard visits with scenic stops and a relaxed lunch.

The tour costs around $1,186.83 per person, which might seem steep at first glance. However, when you consider the personalized service, expert guidance, small group size, high-quality tastings, and gourmet picnic, it’s a good deal for serious wine lovers or those wanting a premium experience.

Authentic Reviewer Insights

Multiple reviews praise Hugo’s expertise and personable approach, with BeverlyAdkins_A calling him “a perfect guide” who took guests to small, passionate wineries. Ashley_B appreciated the combination of tasting wines from smaller producers and enjoying a delicious lunch, emphasizing Hugo’s professionalism and knowledge as a key part of the experience.

These insights reveal that beyond the beautiful scenery and wine, the guiding service adds real value, making the day both educational and fun.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private Beaujolais wine tour is tailored for travelers who value personalized attention and authentic, small-scale winery visits. It suits wine enthusiasts eager to learn about the region’s evolution, as well as those who enjoy scenic drives and gourmet meals. It’s also perfect for couples or small groups seeking a luxurious, educational day that combines wine, culture, and landscape in a seamless package.

While the price might be a barrier for some, the tailored experience, expert guidance, and high-quality tastings justify the investment—especially for those wanting a memorable, in-depth exploration of Beaujolais.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but it’s primarily designed for adults with an interest in wine.

Are transportation and pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your hotel in Lyon, with various private vehicle options.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 8 to 9 hours, including vineyard visits, scenic stops, and lunch.

Can I buy wine during the tour?
Wines can be purchased and shipped to your home, making it easy to take a taste of Beaujolais back with you.

Is the tour private or in a group?
This is a private tour, meaning only your group participates, ensuring a personalized experience.

What kind of wines will I taste?
You’ll sample around six wines at each winery, including vintage bottles from different decades, plus wines during the gourmet picnic.

Are vegetarian or special dietary options available?
While not specified, given the gourmet picnic nature, special requests can likely be accommodated—it’s best to inquire in advance.

How physically demanding is the tour?
It involves vineyard walks and scenic stops but generally remains accessible for most travelers comfortable with moderate walking.

Is the guide knowledgeable about French wine?
Absolutely. Hugo, a WSET3 graduate and wine merchant, shares detailed insights into French wine characteristics and regional history.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This private Beaujolais wine tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience blending small-scale vineyard visits, vintage wine tastings, and breathtaking scenery—all led by an expert guide. It’s a perfect choice for those wanting an intimate, educational journey into one of France’s most charming wine regions, with the added comfort of private transportation and gourmet dining.

While the price may be on the higher end, the focus on authentic producers, expert guidance, and personalized service makes it a worthwhile investment for wine lovers seeking a memorable, in-depth day in Beaujolais. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving an immersive wine experience, this tour promises a day of discovery that will linger long after the bottles are empty.