Saint-Emilion: Wine Region Tour W/ Wine Tasting & Aperitifs

Discover the enchanting wine region of Saint-Emilion on this immersive tour. Venture through the medieval village, explore a renowned local chateau, and savor Bordeaux’s finest wines alongside delectable French aperitifs. With knowledgeable guides, a small group setting, and ample time to soak in the historic atmosphere, this four-hour experience promises to delight the senses and leave you eager to uncover more of this renowned winemaking destination.

Key Points

Key points for "Saint-Emilion: Wine Region Tour W/ Wine Tasting & Aperitifs":

• A 4-hour tour that takes visitors to the historic village of Saint-Emilion, known for its exceptional winemaking heritage.
• Includes a guided tour of the medieval streets, a wine tasting at a local chateau, and an aperitif featuring French delicacies.
• Tour starts in Bordeaux, with a 50-minute van ride to Saint-Emilion and back.
• Limited to 8 participants, with the tour available in English and French.
• Overall positive customer feedback, with praise for knowledgeable guides and the wine tasting experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The tour is titled "Saint-Emilion: Wine Region Tour w/ Wine Tasting & Aperitifs" and is priced from $97.42 per person.

It lasts 4 hours and is limited to 8 participants. Available in English and French, the tour allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The meeting point is at the Monument aux Girondins in Bordeaux.

Highlights include a guided tour of the Saint-Emilion village, a wine tasting at a local chateau, and an aperitif featuring regional specialties.

Itinerary

Starting from the 2792 Pl. des Quinconces, the tour begins with a van ride to the historic town of Saint-Émilion, which takes approximately 50 minutes. Once in Saint-Émilion, the group embarks on a guided tour of the village, exploring its rich wine-making heritage for 1 hour. After the walking tour, participants visit a local chateau for a 1-hour wine tasting experience. Finally, the tour concludes with a 50-minute van ride back to Bordeaux.

| Activity | Duration |

| — | — |

| Van ride to Saint-Émilion | 50 minutes |

| Guided tour of the village | 1 hour |

| Wine tasting at a chateau | 1 hour |

| Van ride back to Bordeaux | 50 minutes |

Highlights of the Tour

One of the highlights of the Saint-Emilion wine region tour is the opportunity to discover the area’s rich wine-making heritage.

During the guided tour of the historic village, visitors will explore its medieval streets and learn about its winemaking legacy dating back to the 5th century.

The tour also includes a visit to a local chateau where guests can witness the wine production process firsthand.

A visit to a local chateau allows guests to observe the wine production process in action.

Plus, the experience features a wine tasting of two regional wines and an aperitif featuring French cheese, cured meat, and dark chocolate – a delightful way to savor the flavors of the Saint-Emilion terroir.

Exploring the History of Saint-Emilion

As one of the oldest wine-producing regions in France, Saint-Emilion boasts a captivating history that spans over 1,500 years. The village’s origins date back to the 5th century when a Benedictine monk named Émilion sought solace in the region’s limestone caves. The underground catacombs and historic monuments, including the monolithic church carved into a cliff, stand as testament to the area’s rich heritage. Explore the timeline of Saint-Emilion’s winemaking legacy through this informative table:

| Century | Key Events |

| — | — |

| 5th | Monk Émilion establishes a hermitage in the region |

| 8th | Benedictine monks begin cultivating vineyards |

| 12th | Saint-Emilion is recognized as an exceptional winemaking area |

| 18th | The classification system is introduced, recognizing top producers |

| 20th | Saint-Emilion gains UNESCO World Heritage status |

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The Wine-Making Process at the Chateau

After exploring the rich history of Saint-Emilion, the wine tour takes visitors behind the scenes to witness the meticulous wine-making process at a local chateau.

Guests observe as grapes are carefully sorted, crushed, and fermented. The guide explains the importance of temperature control, oak barrel aging, and blending techniques that give the wines their distinct flavors.

Participants learn about the terroir and how factors like soil, climate, and grape varieties influence the final product.

The hands-on experience provides a deeper appreciation for the artistry and patience required to craft exceptional Saint-Emilion wines.

Walking Tour of the Village

Following the walking tour of the chateau and wine tasting, the group heads into the charming village of Saint-Emilion.

The guide leads the way through the winding cobblestone streets, pointing out the medieval architecture and historic landmarks. Visitors explore the Collegiate Church, a Romanesque-Gothic edifice dating back to the 12th century.

The tour also takes in the underground catacombs, which were once used as a shelter and refuge. Throughout the walk, the guide shares stories about the village’s winemaking heritage and its status as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The tour culminates with an aperitif in a local café.

Transportation and Logistics

The tour begins with a scenic 50-minute van ride from Bordeaux to the picturesque town of Saint-Émilion.

The van is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a comfortable and personalized experience. Transport is provided throughout the day, including the return trip back to Bordeaux.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and children under 4 aren’t permitted. Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes to navigate the village’s cobblestone streets.

Minimum participation is required, so the tour may be canceled if fewer than 2 people sign up.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

How do customers rate this Saint-Emilion wine region tour?

Based on 24 reviews, the tour earns an impressive 4.5/5 overall rating. Customers praise the knowledgeable, passionate guides like Kaio, Dorian, and Isabelle. The wine tasting and exploration of the historic village are highlights.

Reviewers rate the transportation 5/5, while the value for money is 4.1/5. Despite a few guests noting the tour may not be wheelchair accessible, the majority of customers are highly satisfied with this immersive experience discovering Saint-Emilion’s wine heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Professional Cameras Allowed During the Tour?

Professional cameras are generally allowed during the tour. However, it’s best to check with the tour provider beforehand to ensure there are no restrictions on camera use or photography during the tour activities.

Is There a Dress Code for the Wine Tasting Portion?

There is no formal dress code for the wine tasting. Guests can wear comfortable, casual clothing. The focus is on enjoying the wines in a relaxed setting, so there are no strict sartorial requirements.

Is There an Option to Purchase Additional Wine at the Chateau?

Yes, visitors can purchase additional wine at the chateau during the tasting. The tour includes a wine tasting, but extra bottles may be bought if desired to extend the experience or bring home as souvenirs.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Aperitif?

Yes, you can request a vegetarian or gluten-free aperitif. The tour operator is happy to accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. Just let them know your requirements when booking the tour.

Can I Extend My Stay in Saint-Emilion After the Tour?

While the tour does not include an extended stay in Saint-Emilion, you can certainly make your own arrangements to explore the village further after the tour concludes. The tour company is happy to provide recommendations for extending your visit.

The Sum Up

The Saint-Emilion: Wine Region Tour offers a captivating glimpse into the heart of Bordeaux’s renowned wine country. Guests can savor regional wines, delectable aperitifs, and the charming medieval streets of this historic village, all while benefiting from knowledgeable guides and a cozy group atmosphere. This immersive experience is a must-do for wine enthusiasts seeking to explore the rich winemaking heritage of the Bordeaux region.

You can check availability for your dates here: