15 Burgundy Wines Chateau Pommard, Chablis Small-Group

Exploring Burgundy Wines at Chateau Pommard & Chablis: A Honest Review

If you’re thinking about a day trip from Paris that combines stunning scenery, expert wine tastings, and a chance to learn about Burgundy’s famed vineyards, this small-group tour might just catch your eye. While I haven’t taken this exact trip myself, I’ve poured over reviews, itineraries, and details to give you a clear picture of what to expect.

What really appeals here are the three different wine tastings, especially since they feature Grand Cru and 1-er Cru wines, which are the top-tier classifications for Burgundy. Plus, the inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off makes it a lot more comfortable, especially after a long day of tasting and driving. On the flip side, with a 13.5-hour itinerary, this tour involves quite a bit of time on the road, which might be tiring if you’re not used to long day trips.

This experience is best suited for wine lovers who want a comprehensive Burgundy tasting experience without the hassle of planning logistics. It’s also ideal if you’re traveling in a small group — limiting it to just 2 to 7 people — so you can enjoy the day without the crowds or noise of larger tours.

Key Points

• Intimate experience: Small group size (2-7 people) for a more personalized day.
• Diverse tastings: 15 glasses across 3 domains, including top-tier wines.
• Expert guidance: Knowledgeable staff leading tours and tastings, explaining regional differences.
• Comfortable transport: Mercedes E220/E300 or minivan for a smooth ride.
• All logistics covered: Hotel pickup/drop-off, taxes, and bottled water included.
• Long day, but with well-planned stops and breaks to keep you refreshed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown

Early Morning Pickup and Journey to Chablis

The day kicks off bright and early, with pickup from your Paris hotel around 7:00 am. The drive to Chablis covers roughly 190 km, taking around 2.5 hours, with a quick stop at a rest area. This initial drive might seem long, but the comfortable Mercedes vehicles make it manageable. Based on reviews, travelers appreciated the “clean, tidy, and comfortable” ride, which set a relaxed tone for the day.

First Stop: Jean-Marc Brocard Domaine

Arriving in Chablis around 10:00 am, you’ll visit Jean-Marc Brocard, famous for producing some of the region’s best Chablis wines. The visit includes a cave tour and tasting of 5 wines, which feature Chablis, Chablis 1-er Cru, and Chablis Grand Cru — showcasing the different levels of quality within the region.

The staff here are quite knowledgeable, and reviews note that they’re very helpful and professional, giving clear explanations of the winemaking process and the differences among the classifications. One traveler remarked, “The experienced staff will give You all explanations about the process of winemaking in Chablis and point out the differences between Chablis, Chablis 1-er Cru, and Chablis Grand Cru.” That kind of insight is invaluable if you’re trying to understand what makes Burgundy wines so unique.

Lunch or Free Time in Chablis

Around midday, you’ll have a chance to grab a bite or explore the charming town of Chablis. Some tours offer a gastronomic lunch (payable directly), which is a great way to enjoy local flavors, while others may leave it flexible for you to wander and soak in the atmosphere. Many travelers appreciate having this free time to either relax at a local café or stroll through the quaint streets.

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Afternoon: Travel to Burgundy and More Tasting

Post-lunch, the journey continues with a drive to Château de Pommard near Beaune — about 135 km away, taking approximately 1.5 hours. The drive itself is comfortable, with another rest stop, and travelers often mention the smooth ride as a highlight after the long day.

Once at Château de Pommard, you’ll indulge in a guided visit of one of Burgundy’s most renowned domaines. Here, you’re treated to a tasting of 5 Burgundian wines, including Grand Cru and 1-er Cru wines. The staff, often described as professional and passionate, help decode the subtleties of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes across different Burgundian terroirs. One review notes that the tasting “helped us learn how Burgundy’s star grapes express themselves across villages and terroirs,” which can add a lot of depth to your understanding of the region.

Learning About Burgundy’s Classifications and Regions

During the tasting, a knowledgeable sommelier explains Burgundy’s classification system, covering the five subregions, and how natural factors influence the taste. If you’re a wine geek or just curious, this background elevates the experience beyond just drinking wine.

Return to Paris in the Evening

The last leg is the drive back to Paris, about 3.5-4 hours, with another rest stop. You’ll arrive around 9:00 pm, tired but filled with new knowledge and memories of some exceptional wines. The reviews echo the overall satisfaction, with travelers noting the comfortable ride and lovely stops along the way.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:
– All guided visits and tastings at Jean-Marc Brocard, Domaine Céline et Frédéric GUEGUEN (or Baptiste), and Château de Pommard.
– All fees, taxes, bottled water, and transportation.
– Hotel pickup and drop-off, which simplifies logistics.

Not Included:
– Meals and additional drinks beyond water.
– Souvenirs or gratuities.
– Specific lunches are not included but can be arranged or enjoyed in Chablis town.

The Practical Side: What You Need to Know

This tour is quite lengthy, so comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended — you’ll be on your feet quite a bit. It’s not suited for children under 6 or wheelchair users, primarily because of the nature of vineyard visits and the physical demands of the day.

The small-group format, limited to 7 people, means you’ll enjoy a more intimate experience, but it also means spots can fill up quickly. Booking in advance is advisable, especially during high season.

Two reviewers specifically mentioned how “the vehicle is clean, tidy, and comfortable,” and the guide is “very professional, polite, and helpful,” which makes the long drives more bearable.

Is This Tour Worth the Price?

At $497 per person, this experience isn’t cheap, but it’s fairly reflective of what you get: three guided vineyard visits, 15 wine tastings, expert explanations, transportation, and convenience. If you’re a serious wine enthusiast wanting to maximize your Burgundy experience with minimal planning, this could be a worthwhile splurge.

For someone new to Burgundy wines, the steps and classifications might seem overwhelming, but the guided format helps demystify it all. On the other hand, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer a more relaxed pace, consider whether a full day away from Paris and such an intense schedule fits your vibe.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a balanced mix of education, tasting, and scenic drives, making it perfect for those who want to leave the planning to someone else while still gaining insight into Burgundy’s wine world. The small group size and expert guides can enrich your understanding, especially if you’re keen on the nuances of Burgundy wines.

While the long hours might be tiring, the stops at top domaines and the variety of wines—especially the chance to taste Grand Cru and 1-er Cru wines—make it a compelling option. Just be prepared for a full day of travel and tasting, and you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation of Burgundy’s viticultural artistry.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people who don’t drink wine?
This is primarily a wine tasting tour, so if you’re not into wine, it might not be the best fit. However, if you’re curious about wine and enjoy learning about different regions, you’ll likely still find it interesting.

How long is the drive from Paris to Chablis and Burgundy?
The drive to Chablis is approximately 2.5 hours, and the trip from Chablis to Château de Pommard adds about another 1.5 hours. The return journey takes around 3.5–4 hours.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, meals are not included, but there is an option to enjoy a gastronomic lunch in Chablis, payable directly to the restaurant.

What wines will I taste?
You’ll sample a total of 15 wines across three domain visits, including Chablis, Chablis Premier Cru, Chablis Grand Cru, and Burgundy reds and whites, with some wines classified as Grand Cru and 1-er Cru.

Is the group size really small?
Yes, the tour is limited to 2 to 7 participants, making it ideal for a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you some flexibility to plan ahead.

If you’re keen on exploring Burgundy’s vineyards and love wine, this tour offers a well-rounded day packed with tasting, learning, and beautiful scenery — all with the comfort of a small group and professional guidance. Just prepare for a long day, and you’ll be rewarded with a memorable Burgundy adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: