Visit of our 15th century cellars

Exploring Beaune’s Historic Cellars: A Review of the Maison Champy Tour

If you’re heading to Beaune and have a soft spot for wine, a visit to Maison Champy’s 15th-century cellars is something you shouldn’t miss. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the glowing reviews and detailed info suggest it’s a genuine treat for anyone interested in Burgundy’s wine heritage. Whether you’re a casual sipper or a budding connoisseur, this experience offers a fascinating look into one of Burgundy’s oldest wine estates.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are the historical setting of the cellars—they’re centuries old, full of character—and the quality of the wine tasting. You’ll get to sample a total of ten wines across two tasting categories, including some top-tier classifications like Premier Cru and Grand Cru. One thing to keep in mind, though, is that the tasting is only available to those 18 and older, so it’s not suitable if you’re traveling with younger family members or children.

This tour appeals most to wine enthusiasts, history buffs, and travelers who want a well-rounded, accessible introduction to Burgundy’s wine world. It’s a good fit for those who enjoy learning from knowledgeable guides and appreciate a comfortable, small-group setting. If you’re after a deeper dive into wine production or a longer tour, this might feel a bit brief, but for most, it’s just right.

Key Points

• Historic Cellars: The tour takes place in the 15th-century cellars of Maison Champy, offering a unique glimpse into Burgundy’s past.
• Quality of Wines: You’ll taste five wines from the estate, including one Premier Cru and one Grand Cru, showcasing some of Burgundy’s finest.
• Expert Guides: Reviews highlight the helpful and knowledgeable guides, making learning easy and enjoyable.
• Short & Sweet: About 1 hour 30 minutes, perfect for a relaxed yet informative experience.
• Price & Value: At roughly $28.66 per person, considering the quality of wines and historical setting, this is an approachable and worthwhile price point.
• Booking & Accessibility: Most travelers book about 11 days in advance; note that late arrivals (more than 15 mins) may be refused entry.

A Closer Look at the Tour

Starting Point: Maison Champy in Beaune

The tour kicks off right in the heart of Beaune at Maison Champy, a historic estate founded in 1720. As the first wine estate established in Burgundy, it carries a serious sense of tradition. The building itself is charming, inspired by the Eiffel School, and both the building and cellars are listed as Historic Monuments—meaning you’re stepping into a piece of Burgundy’s history.

Our imaginary journey begins here with a quick overview of the estate’s significance. Maison Champy owns 21 hectares of vineyards, mainly in the Côte de Beaune, and is celebrated for its Grand Crus, especially Corton-Charlemagne. They also focus heavily on Organic Farming methods, a point worth noting if you’re interested in sustainable wine production.

The Cellars: Stepping Back in Time

The real highlight is the 15th-century cellars. These underground spaces are cool, dark, and full of character—think stone walls, barrel-lined corridors, and a sense of history that you can’t get from a book. The tour guides usually do a great job explaining the history and importance of these cellars, which have stored wine for centuries.

Guests often comment on how atmospheric and authentic the setting feels. One reviewer mentioned they “had a great time learning about the region and wine making process,” which shows how well the guides blend history with practical wine knowledge. The cellars, in particular, add a sense of gravitas and charm that elevates the tasting experience.

The Tasting Experience: Five Wines in Two Categories

The tasting is divided into two categories: Terroir and Prestige.

• Under Terroir, you’ll taste five wines, including one Premier Cru. These wines highlight the terroir— the unique combination of soil, climate, and vineyard location—that influences Burgundy wines’ character.

• Under Prestige, the tasting also includes five wines, with one being a Grand Cru. This category tends to showcase the estate’s higher-end offerings, providing a taste of Burgundy’s most celebrated vineyards.

While the specific wines might change depending on availability, you can generally expect to sample a variety of styles, from more accessible options to the prestigious Grand Cru. Reviewers describe the tasting as “exceptional,” and it’s clear that the guides do a good job explaining the differences and nuances of each wine.

Guides and Group Size

Most reviews praise the guides for their friendly, informative style. One reviewer mentioned Mathias as “helpful and patient,” while another appreciated Cryiane’s explanation of Burgundy’s wine production. The experience is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, which helps keep things intimate and allows for more personalized attention.

Price and Booking

At around $28.66 per person, this tour offers solid value. Considering the historical significance, the quality of the wines, and the personalized experience, it’s a reasonable price point. Most travelers book about 11 days in advance, which suggests it’s popular enough to require planning, especially during peak seasons.

Practical Details

• Duration: About 1 hour 30 minutes – just enough time to enjoy both the cellar visit and tastings without feeling rushed.
• Access Conditions: Tours have fixed times, so arriving late (more than 15 minutes) may lead to refusal of entry. The tour is only for those 18 and older, and animals are not permitted.
• Cancellation: Fully refundable if canceled at least 24 hours in advance—making it flexible if your plans change.

Authentic Experiences & Honest Impressions

One of the standout points from reviews is how much visitors enjoy the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. Statements like “Cryiane explained everything perfectly in English” and “Mathias was very helpful” underscore that this isn’t just about tasting wine; it’s about understanding it.

Many guests describe the overall tour as “wonderful” and “perfect,” especially those who booked last-minute or had smaller groups. The authentic atmosphere of the cellars and the chance to taste some of Burgundy’s most iconic wines make it a memorable activity.

That said, the tour is somewhat limited in scope and duration. If you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast looking for an in-depth exploration or a comprehensive vineyard tour, this might feel a little brief. However, for most visitors, especially those new to Burgundy wines, this provides a great balance of history, education, and tasting.

The Sum Up

If you’re looking for a focused, intimate introduction to Burgundy wines with a dash of history, the Maison Champy tour in Beaune is an excellent choice. The setting of century-old cellars combined with the tasting of top-tier wines makes for a memorable experience, especially if guided by knowledgeable, friendly staff.

This tour is especially suited for wine lovers, history enthusiasts, and travelers wanting a manageable, well-organized activity that doesn’t overreach but still offers substantial value. It’s a good option for visitors who want to get a taste of Burgundy’s heritage without committing to a full-day or more extensive tour.

While it might not satisfy those seeking an exhaustive wine education or a long vineyard walk, it hits the sweet spot for most casual alcohol explorers. And at its price point, it’s a worthwhile addition to any Burgundy itinerary.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the tasting is only for those 18 and older; children are not allowed to participate in the wine tasting.

How long does the tour last?
The experience takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a relaxed but informative activity.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about 11 days ahead. This helps ensure you get a spot, especially during busy seasons.

What happens if I arrive late?
If you’re more than 15 minutes late, Maison Champy has the right to refuse entry, so punctuality is important.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund if you do so at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time.

What wines will I taste?
You’ll sample five wines in each category—Terroir and Prestige—including at least one Premier Cru and one Grand Cru, though specific bottles may vary.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Given the age restriction for tasting, it’s not suitable for children or younger travelers.

If you’re looking for a genuinely enjoyable, well-guided introduction to Burgundy’s historic cellars and wines, the Maison Champy experience provides just that—without any unnecessary fuss. It’s a taste of Burgundy’s past and present, served up with warmth and expertise.