Winery visit / tasting in the vineyards, Mas des Escarades

Discovering the Charm of Mas des Escarades: A Private Wine Tasting in Avignon

If you’re looking for a way to indulge in authentic French wines while soaking up breathtaking views, a visit to Mas des Escarades might just be what you need. This private tour offers a tasting experience right in the heart of the vineyards, with panoramic vistas of Mont Ventoux, the Montmirail mountain range, and the charming village of Villedieu. Although I haven’t personally taken this tour, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions make it clear that it offers a genuine and enjoyable taste of Provençal winemaking.

What stands out most about this experience are the exceptional wines and the warm, welcoming atmosphere created by the winemaker himself. Plus, the setting is truly picturesque—imagine sipping wine with a view that stretches as far as the eye can see. On the flip side, since transportation isn’t included, you’ll need to consider how to get there, especially if you’re staying in central Avignon or nearby. This tour seems tailored for anyone craving a relaxed, intimate glimpse into local wine culture, particularly those who appreciate a good story behind their glass.

Key Points

• Private experience ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere
• Panoramic vineyard views provide a beautiful backdrop for tasting
• Expert winemaker-led tasting adds depth and authenticity
• Affordable price point makes it accessible for most budgets
• No transportation included means planning your arrival
• Highly rated with glowing reviews emphasizing the quality of wine and host warmth

Why This Tour Might Be Just Right for You

This winery visit and tasting tour at Mas des Escarades offers an authentic peek into Provençal winemaking without the fuss of large group tours. The experience combines scenic vistas with a tasting session led by the winemaker himself, which means you get to hear firsthand about the wines, the estate, and the passion behind each bottle. If you’re someone who loves wine and picturesque landscapes, this tour hits two key notes.

The tour’s cost of about $23.27 per person is quite reasonable, especially when you consider the intimate setting and the chance to taste exceptional wines in a private environment. It’s the kind of experience that feels both special and laid-back, perfect for those wanting a break from the more structured or crowded tours.

However, keep in mind that transportation isn’t included—if you’re staying in Avignon or nearby, you’ll need to arrange how to get to the meeting point in Buisson. The meeting spot is straightforward to find, and since the tour lasts about one hour and thirty minutes, it’s easy to slot into a day of exploring Provence.

What You Can Expect: A Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

Meeting and Arrival

The tour kicks off at 496 Rte de Roaix, Buisson, a scenic spot that’s easy to reach if you’re already in the region. Since this is a private experience, only your group will participate, meaning you can enjoy a more relaxed, personalized environment. Once there, you’ll be greeted by your host—someone passionate about his estate and eager to share his wines and vineyard stories.

The Cellar and Vineyard Visit

The first part of the tour involves a walk through the estate’s cellar and vineyards. While the details of the cellar tour aren’t explicitly described, we can infer that you’ll get to see how the wines are stored and perhaps learn about the winemaking process. The vineyards themselves are situated in a stunning location, offering sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and villages. It’s a chance to appreciate the landscape that influences the wines’ character.

The Tasting Experience

The highlight is, of course, the tasting with the winemaker. You’ll sample exceptional wines in a setting that emphasizes the beauty of the terroir. Past reviews describe the wines as “very good” and highlight the expert, passionate host who makes sure visitors feel welcomed and informed. One reviewer called the experience “enriching,” emphasizing the genuine connection they felt with the host and the quality of the wines.

The Views

What makes this experience truly stand out are the panoramic vistas. From your tasting spot, you’ll witness views of Mont Ventoux, famous among cyclists and hikers alike, along with the Montmirail mountain range and the small, picturesque village of Villedieu. These views add a special touch, making the whole experience unforgettable.

Duration and Flexibility

With the entire experience lasting around 1 hour and 30 minutes, it’s just enough time to enjoy a relaxed tasting without feeling rushed. The tour is flexible enough to fit into a larger plan, perhaps after exploring nearby towns or other Provençal sights.

Authenticity and Reviews

Feedback from visitors consistently paints this tour as a “nice meeting” with a passionate host who welcomes guests into his vineyards and cellar. One reviewer mentioned feeling like they truly connected to the estate’s story, which adds a layer of authenticity often missing from larger, commercial tours.

The wines themselves get high praise, with reviews calling them “excellent” and the overall visit “very nice.” The estate’s accessibility and welcoming staff make it particularly suitable for travelers seeking a genuine, intimate experience rather than a touristy spectacle.

Analyzing the Value

At roughly $23.27 per person, you’re paying for a personalized, one-and-a-half-hour experience in a stunning setting. Given the quality of the wines, the picturesque location, and the chance to chat directly with the winemaker, this price feels quite reasonable. The small group setting means you get tailored attention and a more genuine insight into the estate’s practices.

Since transportation isn’t included, you might want to weigh how you’ll get there—most travelers will likely need to arrange private transport or a car rental. The ease of access from Avignon or nearby towns makes this manageable, especially if you’re already planning to explore the region.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

If you’re a wine lover, especially one appreciating the stories behind each bottle, this tour is a great choice. It suits travelers who prefer intimate, relaxed settings over large group tours and enjoy scenic views as part of their experience. It’s also ideal for those who want to learn more about Provençal wines directly from the host, making it both educational and enjoyable.

If you’re traveling with family or friends who share your interest in wine, or if you want a peaceful break amidst your Provence itinerary, this tour offers a perfect fit. Just remember, since it’s a private experience, it’s best suited for those who appreciate a personalized touch.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This tour offers a lovely blend of scenery, authentic wine tasting, and personalized attention. If you’re seeking a memorable, intimate experience in the heart of Provence’s vineyards, Mas des Escarades could be just what you’re after. The views alone are worth the trip, but coupled with the quality wines and warm host, it’s a small experience that leaves a big impression.

While you’ll need to plan your transport, the overall value is high—especially given the rave reviews praising the wines and the welcoming atmosphere. It’s perfect for wine enthusiasts, couples, or anyone looking to connect more deeply with Provençal wine culture without the crowds.

If you’re after a straightforward, beautiful, and honest wine tasting in a beautiful setting, this could be a highlight of your time near Avignon.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the price? No, transportation is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own way to reach the meeting point in Buisson.

How long does the tour last? The experience lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a manageable addition to your day.

What languages are available for the tasting? The experience is available in English, which should suit most visitors.

Is the experience suitable for all travelers? Generally, most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. It’s ideal for those interested in wine and scenic views.

What is the price for this tour? It costs about $23.27 per person, offering good value for a private, personalized wine tasting.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Do I need to book far in advance? Yes, on average, this experience is booked about 54 days ahead, which suggests it’s popular.

What makes the wines special? Based on reviews, the wines are described as very good and of high quality, a highlight of this experience.

Is this experience family-friendly? While not explicitly stated, since most travelers can participate and it’s a private, relaxed setting, it’s likely suitable for older children or teenagers with an interest in wine and scenery.

If you’re craving a peaceful, scenic vineyard visit with truly excellent wines and a host who makes you feel at home, this tour at Mas des Escarades ticks all the right boxes. Just remember to plan your transport and enjoy the simple pleasure of tasting top-quality wine with a view that will stay with you long after you’ve left.