Beaujolais Region Wine Tasting Private Day Tour from Lyon

If you’re into wine and happen to find yourself in Lyon, a trip to the Beaujolais region is a must. We’ve come across this private tour that promises a full day of exploring scenic vineyards, tasting award-winning wines, and learning about French wine-making traditions. While we haven’t done it ourselves, it’s one of those experiences that seems well-suited for those who want an intimate, in-depth look behind the scenes of Beaujolais wine production.

What caught our eye? First, the personalized nature of the tour, with a private guide ensuring you get undivided attention and tailored insights. Second, the variety of wines you’ll taste—ranging from the famous Beaujolais Nouveau to lesser-known crus, which is a great way to broaden your palate. That said, one thing to consider is the price point — at over $1,100 for up to four people, it’s a significant investment, though the included transport, tastings, and private guide might make it feel more worthwhile.

This tour probably suits travelers who are serious about wine, eager to learn more about French terroir, and appreciate a more intimate experience. If you enjoy a personal touch and want to avoid large groups, this could be a good fit.

Key Points

• Private Experience: Personalized tour with undivided attention from your expert guide.
• Multiple Wineries: Visits to up to three wineries in Côte de Brouilly and Fleury.
• Diverse Tastings: Sampling of reds, whites, and rosés, including the famous Beaujolais Nouveau.
• Educational Content: Learn about French wine, terroir, and cru classifications during your visits.
• Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off included, making logistics easy.
• Cost: Slightly on the higher side but includes comprehensive experiences and private transport.

What to Expect from This Beaujolais Wine Tour

Once you book, the adventure begins bright and early. The guide will pick you up from your hotel in Lyon around 9:15 am, setting the tone for a relaxed day filled with stunning vineyard views and engaging wine stories. The drive itself is part of the charm — winding through the rolling hills of the Beaujolais region, which makes for a scenic start that sets the mood for the day.

Visiting Wineries and Meeting Winemakers

Your tour includes visits to up to three wineries, specifically in the Côte de Brouilly and Fleury areas. Each stop is likely to offer guided tours of the vineyards and wine cellars, giving you a peek into the production process. The winemakers are usually passionate about sharing their craft, and based on reviews, they’re eager to share their love for their wines, often making the experience more personal and engaging.

Tasting a Wide Range of Wines

Expect to sample an assortment of red, white, and rosé wines. The focus is on showcasing the region’s diversity. Of course, Beaujolais is famous for its Beaujolais Nouveau, which is celebrated worldwide, but you’ll also get the chance to taste some of the lesser-known crus, which are often more complex and expressive. We loved hearing from a reviewer who said, “Olivier was a great guide, deep knowledge of wine, and is studying WSET diploma. We enjoyed the wineries and had a really great time.”

Learning About the Region

Your guide will share insights about terroir, cru classifications, and what makes each vineyard unique. For those interested in wine appreciation, this contextual knowledge makes the tastings much more meaningful. It’s not just about sipping wine but understanding the story behind each bottle.

Lunch and Additional Considerations

The tour price doesn’t include lunch, so you might want to plan for a meal during the day — whether it’s a picnic in the vineyards or a local bistro. The focus is primarily on tastings and sightseeing, so if you’re after a full-on culinary experience, you might need to organize that separately.

End of the Day and Return to Lyon

The tour wraps up around 5:30 pm, with your guide driving you back to Lyon. The entire day is roughly nine hours, which provides ample time to savor the wines and enjoy the scenic drive without feeling rushed.

The Experience Value

Considering the price of just over $1,160 for up to four people, this tour offers a good deal when you think about what’s included: private transport, multiple winery visits, tastings, and the chance to learn directly from passionate winemakers. One reviewer even said, “We enjoyed the wineries and had a really great time, thank you!” which hints at how personalized and satisfying the experience can be.

It’s important to note that, like many wine tours, the value depends on your interest level and appreciation for wine. If you’re a casual wine drinker, the cost might seem high for just tastings, but for those truly interested in exploring Beaujolais in depth, it’s quite a comprehensive package.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private tour is best suited for wine lovers who value quality and intimacy. It’s ideal if you want to avoid crowded group tours and prefer a more tailored experience. Also, those eager to deepen their understanding of French wine and terroir will get plenty out of this. It’s not specifically geared towards families or children, but if you’re traveling with adults who love wine and culture, it could be perfect.

If you’re short on time but want to see the highlights of Beaujolais with expert guidance, this tour streamlines the experience, making it easier than planning on your own.

Final Thoughts

This Beaujolais Region Wine Tasting Private Day Tour from Lyon offers an enriching, relaxed way to appreciate some of France’s finest wines. The private nature ensures a personalized touch, and the visits to multiple wineries give a broad perspective of the region’s offerings. The scenic drives, combined with expert insights, make it a well-rounded experience for those who truly love wine and want an authentic taste of Beaujolais terroir.

While the price might be a consideration, many reviews highlight the quality of the guide, the variety of wines, and the overall value for money. For serious wine enthusiasts or those wanting a special day out with a touch of education and luxury, this tour checks many boxes.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the guide will share insights about wine and terroir, making it accessible even if you’re new to wine tasting.

What is included in the price?
The price covers private transportation, hotel pickup and drop-off, and tastings at up to three wineries.

Can I customize the wineries visited?
Since it’s a private tour, your guide can tailor the experience to some extent, focusing on wines or regions you prefer.

Are there any additional costs?
Lunch isn’t included, so you should budget for a meal if desired. Other personal expenses, like additional tastings or souvenirs, are also extra.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, from around 9:15 am to 5:30 pm.

Is there a minimum age for participants?
Yes, the minimum drinking age is 18 years.

What if it rains?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the private vehicle is described as comfortable, making the scenic drive enjoyable.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 59 days ahead, so it’s wise to reserve early.

Is this a group tour?
No, it’s a fully private experience for your group only, providing a more intimate setting.

If you’re after a relaxed, informative, and wine-filled day exploring the best of Beaujolais, this private tour from Lyon looks like a solid choice. Just be prepared for a full day of tasting, learning, and enjoying some of France’s most beloved wines.