Burgundy Wine Tour from Paris

This tour starts with a drive from Paris through the beautiful French countryside to the Chablis Region of Burgundy. This scenic drive will be about two hours long and include a rest break halfway through. At the first winery of the day you'll meet the owner, or her son, and walk through their beautiful vineyard overlooking the famous village of Chablis. You'll learn what the word Terroir really means as you touch the Chardonnay vines and the clay soil with your own hands. Then you'll visit the massive grape press and see where the wine is fermented and refined. Afterwards, you'll sit down for a tasting of at least seven different wines. The winemaker will teach you about the distinct characteristics of the white Chardonnay grapes. No one knows Chardonnay better than a Burgundy winemaker, as Chardonnay was cultivated for the first time in this region more than 500 years ago. You'll also learn the difference between a Grand cru and a Premier Cru and why some bottles are labeled Millesime and others Cuve. Next you'll visit the lovely town of Noyers-sur-Serein, voted one of the Most Beautiful Villages of France by the French people. Nestled in a bend of the Serein river this once fortified medieval village will charm you. You'll walk through the cobbled lanes with your guide, then have an hour of free time to eat lunch (own expense). Following lunch you'll discover one of the oldest wineries in Burgundy. Domaine Bersan has been a family run winery since 1453. Meet Pierre-Louis, a 21st generation winemaker, then explore the famous Bersan Cellars. Dug out by the Knights Templar in the 11th and 12th centuries, today the Bersan cellars are lined with beautiful Oak Barrels, full of amazing wine. Pierre-Louis will introduce you to at least 5 of his favorite wines. The Pinot Noir grape sings in their Red and Rose wines. Discover the effervescent side of Burgundy at Bailly-Lapierre, one of the largest producers of Cremant de Bourgogne, a delicate sparkling wine made with Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes. You'll visit their ancient underground quarry, with galleries that are 50 meters below ground, extending for more than 10 acres. These massive cellars provide the perfect natural conditions that are needed for the production of Cremant wines and their subtle effervescence. After your visit of their cellars you will taste two of their sparkling wines in their very stylish tasting hall. Then you'll be given a pretty flute glass to take home as a souvenir. Then we'll start the calm drive back into Paris. It will take just over two hours long; there will be a restroom stop halfway through the drive. The days adventures will be over when you say goodbye to your guide next to Notre-Dame Cathedral in central Paris.