Tasting: Sparkling Discovery

If you’ve ever wanted to understand what makes Crémants de Bourgogne so special, this tasting experience at Maison André Delorme might just be the perfect introduction. We haven’t personally done this tour, but based on detailed descriptions and feedback from previous visitors, it offers a thoughtful exploration into France’s sparkling wine craftsmanship.

What sets this experience apart? First, it’s the expertise dating back to 1942, ensuring you’re guided by a seasoned producer who understands the region and its wines intimately. Second, the variety of six different Crémants—from the driest Extra-Brut to the more indulgent Demi-Sec—means you get a comprehensive taste of the region’s output. Lastly, the combination of fine bubbles, subtle aromas, and regional charm promises a refined yet approachable encounter.

The only potential drawback? With the tour lasting around an hour, it’s relatively short, which might leave some wanting a deeper dive into the production process. Still, for most casual wine enthusiasts, this isn’t a detraction but a chance to enjoy a concentrated, quality tasting.

This tour is ideal for wine aficionados, curious travelers, or anyone seeking to elevate their understanding of sparkling wines in a region renowned for its finesse. It’s a perfect fit if you’re after an authentic, guided experience without overly complex details—just pure, bubbly pleasure.

Key Points

• Rich Heritage: Maison André Delorme has been producing Crémants since 1942, offering seasoned expertise.
• Variety of Tastings: Six different vintages, from Extra-Brut to Demi-Sec, for a well-rounded experience.
• Regional Elegance: Highlights the Burgundian terroir’s influence on delicate bubbles and aromas.
• Personalized Guidance: An expert guide leads the tasting, offering insights into each style.
• Authentic Atmosphere: Hosted at the producer’s location, providing an intimate glimpse into Burgundy’s sparkling wine scene.
• Accessible & Flexible: The tour is wheelchair accessible and offers flexible booking options with free cancellation.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Sparkling Discovery Tour

The Setting and General Atmosphere

Maison André Delorme, located in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, provides a warm and welcoming environment that reflects the region’s charm. The tasting takes place in a dedicated space that balances authenticity with comfort, making guests feel like they’re visiting a family-run estate rather than a commercial operation. The ambiance is both professional and relaxed, ideal for learning about wine without feeling overwhelmed.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins with guests arriving at the Maison André Delorme, where a friendly welcome sets the tone. You’re greeted by a knowledgeable guide who not only explains the history of the house—founded in 1942—but also shares insights about the specific characteristics of Crémants de Bourgogne.

After a brief introduction, the main event unfolds: the tasting of six different Crémants, each carefully selected to showcase the range from dry to slightly sweet styles. The tasting involves not just sipping but also understanding what makes each vintage unique, including the influence of dosage levels like Extra-Brut and Demi-Sec.

The experience concludes back at the estate, with guests leaving with a richer appreciation of Burgundy’s sparkling wines. Throughout, guides are available in both English and French, ensuring clarity and engagement regardless of language preference.

What Makes Each Crémant Special?

• Extra-Brut Blanc or Rosé: The starting point, offering a crisp, clean profile with fine bubbles.
• Blanc Brut: Slightly more rounded, maintaining freshness but with added complexity.
• Blanc de Noirs Brut: Made from darker grapes, providing a different flavor profile—think subtle berry notes.
• Blanc de Blancs Brut: Crafted exclusively from white grapes, emphasizing finesse and elegance.
• Prestige Brut (or Rosé): The flagship, often more refined, with nuanced aromas.
• Demi-Sec or Fruit Cream: Provides a sweeter, more indulgent option, perfect for pairing with desserts or fruit creams.

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The Tasting Experience

Guests are guided through each vintage with explanations of the different dosages and what they mean for taste and texture. For example, the transition from Extra-Brut to Demi-Sec highlights how sweetness levels influence the overall experience, giving you a chance to compare styles side by side.

The inclusion of fruit cream pairings adds an extra layer of sensory enjoyment, balancing the sparkling wines’ acidity with a slightly sweet, creamy element. This pairing helps accentuate the wines’ subtle aromas and fine bubbles, making each sip more memorable.

The Value

While the tour lasts about an hour, the opportunity to taste six different Crémants—each representing a different style—is a significant value. You’re not just sampling wine; you’re gaining knowledge about regional craftsmanship, production techniques, and what makes Bourgogne’s sparkling wines stand out internationally.

The guided aspect is particularly valuable, as the hosts are well-versed in the wines’ history and characteristics, providing context that elevates the tasting beyond simple sipping. For wine lovers, especially those new to Crémants, this provides a foundation that transforms casual appreciation into genuine understanding.

Practical Considerations

• The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for a wider audience.
• You can reserve your spot in advance and choose a time that suits your schedule.
• Cancellation is flexible—cancel up to 24 hours before without penalty.
• The duration is around 1 hour, which fits comfortably into most travel plans.
• The experience is suitable for those over 18, but not recommended for children.

The Guide and Atmosphere

The guides, available in both English and French, are praised for their personalized approach and clear explanations. Reviewers mention that they felt genuinely welcomed and appreciated the balance between professionalism and warmth.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tasting is ideal for wine novices eager to understand sparkling wines or seasoned enthusiasts wanting to explore Burgundy’s nuanced offerings. It’s also perfect for travelers who prefer small-group, intimate experiences over large, commercial tastings. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply curious about French bubbles, this tour offers a well-paced, authentic introduction.

Final Thoughts

For those seeking a quality, guided exploration of Burgundy’s sparkling wines, the Sparkling Discovery tour at Maison André Delorme offers a well-balanced mix of history, craftsmanship, and tasting pleasure. The variety of six vintages allows you to appreciate the region’s versatility, and the personalized guidance ensures you leave with both knowledge and a few bottles to remember your trip.

While it’s not a deep dive into the entire winemaking process, it’s an excellent value for the chance to sample Burgundy’s signature bubbles in a relaxed setting. Plus, with flexible booking and a focus on authentic regional production, it’s a compelling choice for almost any wine-loving traveler.

If you love sparkling wines, want to deepen your understanding of regional styles, or simply enjoy a relaxed, guided tasting—this experience delivers. It’s especially suited for those who value authenticity and quality over large tourist crowds.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tasting?
The tour features a tasting of six different Crémants de Bourgogne from various vintages and styles, such as Extra-Brut, Brut, Demi-Sec, and Blanc de Noirs, paired with a fruit cream for a unique flavor balance.

How long is the experience?
The entire tour lasts about one hour, providing enough time to taste, learn, and ask questions without feeling rushed.

Can I choose between different styles of Crémants?
Yes, the tasting includes options like Extra-Brut Blanc or Rosé, as well as Prestige, Demi-Sec, and Blanc de Blancs, with some choices depending on your preferences.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Absolutely, the tour is wheelchair accessible, ensuring convenience for all guests.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended, and you can reserve now and pay later to keep your plans flexible.

What languages are available for guiding?
The guides speak English and French, making the experience accessible to a wide audience.

Is this experience suitable for children?
No, it’s designed for guests over 18 years old due to alcohol consumption.

What should I wear?
Casual but tidy attire is suitable. Since the tasting takes place indoors, there’s no need for special clothing.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind when planning your trip.

Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just curious about French sparkling wines, the Sparkling Discovery tour at Maison André Delorme offers an engaging, authentic glimpse into Burgundy’s celebrated bubbly tradition. It’s a tasteful way to enrich your trip with regional authenticity and a few memorable sips.

You can check availability for your dates here: