Chablis 20 Exquisite Wines Tasting Trip in Small-Group from Paris

If you’re a wine lover craving a taste of Burgundy’s renowned Chablis region, this small-group tour from Paris offers an enticing way to sample some of the best wines around. While we’ve not personally been on this exact trip, the detailed itinerary, reviews, and features suggest it’s a well-organized and enjoyable experience for those eager to deepen their wine knowledge and indulge in beautiful scenery.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, it takes you through four distinguished domains, including visits to Grand Cru and 1-er Cru wines, offering a real taste of Burgundy’s prestige. Second, the tour’s small-group setting (just 4 to 7 participants) promises a more intimate, personalized experience with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and really connect with the wine producers.

However, one thing worth noting is that this is a full-day commitment — around 11 hours — so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a long, busy schedule. If you’re after a relaxed, in-depth look at Chablis’ wineries and don’t mind a day away from Paris, this trip could be a fantastic choice. It’s especially fitting for those who value guided tours, quality tastings, and a touch of Burgundy’s charm in a small-group setting.

This experience is perfect for: wine enthusiasts, curious travelers wanting an educational day, and those who prefer a more personal touch in their wine tours. It’s also suitable for travelers who appreciate efficient transport — thanks to the Mercedes vehicle that makes the drive quicker and more comfortable.

Key Points

• Intimate small-group experience with just 4 to 7 participants, ensuring personalized attention.
• Visits to four top Chablis domains, including Grand Cru and Premier Cru wines, with guided tours and tastings.
• Efficient transportation via Mercedes minivan or E220 car, saving you travel time from Paris.
• Includes a fully guided visit to historical wineries like Domaine Jean-Marc Brocard and Maison Régnard.
• Optional gastronomic lunch in Chablis village, perfect for relaxing and soaking in the local ambiance.
• Book well in advance, typically about 79 days ahead, making it a popular choice for planning early.

The Full Experience: What You Can Expect

This tour offers a comprehensive journey into Burgundy’s famed Chablis vineyards, combining guided visits, tastings, and some free time. Here’s a detailed look into what the day involves.

Meeting and Departure

Your day begins early at 7:30 am at the Opera Garnier steps, or you can opt for hotel pickup if available. The drive to Chablis takes about 2.5 hours, covering roughly 190 km on the highway in a sleek Mercedes vehicle. During the trip, you’ll enjoy the scenery and comfort that a car offers over a bus, plus a quick rest stop at a rest area.

Visit 1: Domaine Jean-Marc Brocard

Arriving around 10:15 am, you’ll visit Jean-Marc Brocard’s vineyard estate, surrounded by vineyards — a lovely setting to start your day. The staff here will guide you through a cellar visit and a tasting of five wines, including Chablis, Chablis 1-er Cru, and Chablis Grand Cru, paired with cheese. This spot is notable for explaining the differences among these classifications, giving you a clear picture of Burgundy’s wine hierarchy.

Reviewers rave about this stop, saying it’s worth the visit and full of insightful explanations. Ann_M called it “such an enjoyable day,” emphasizing how informative and worthwhile the visit was.

Stop 2: Domaine Celine & Frederic Gueguen

Next, you’ll head to the heart of Chablis village for a free time or an optional tasting at Domaine Celine & Frederic Gueguen. Here, you might sample Petit Chablis, Chablis, Premier Cru, and Grand Cru wines, depending on availability. Some visitors find this optional tasting a highlight, while others choose to explore the village instead.

Lunch Break in Chablis

Around 12:30 pm, you’ll pause for a delicious lunch in the charming village of Chablis. The tour offers to reserve a gastronomic restaurant for you, but you’ll pay directly there. The leisurely hour and a half give you time to relax, stroll, or soak in the ambiance of this quaint wine town.

Visit 3 & 4: Maison Régnard & La Chablisienne

Post-lunch, your journey continues with visits to Maison Régnard, a historical wine house founded in 1860. Here, you’ll receive a guided tour of the cellars and taste five wines, including Grand Cru and 1-er Cru options. The reputation of Régnard among Burgundy fans is strong; reviews mention that the guided explanation of wine production and classification really enriches the experience.

Next, you’ll visit La Chablisienne, where you’ll enjoy another tasting of five wines. Local sommeliers will help explain the wine profiles, making this part of the tour educational and flavorful.

Return to Paris

The day winds down with a 2.5-hour drive back to Paris, again in a comfortable Mercedes, with a quick rest stop along the way. Expect to be back around 6:30-7:00 pm, depending on traffic.

Value for Money and Practicalities

At $375.84 per person, this tour isn’t exactly cheap, but it’s fairly reflective of the quality and exclusivity of the experience. The inclusions — guided visits, tastings, transportation, and water — contribute to a seamless day. The small group size enhances the overall experience, allowing more interaction and personalized attention from guides.

For those really passionate about wine, the chance to taste 20 wines across multiple domains is quite generous, especially with the context provided by knowledgeable guides. It’s also clear that the tour is well-organized, with reviews praising the guides’ expertise and friendliness. For example, DebHuttenburg appreciated Roman’s recommendations, and Ann_M highlighted how informative Alex was throughout.

While the lunch is optional and paid separately, booking ahead ensures you’ll get a spot at a good restaurant. Be prepared for a full, busy day — this isn’t a leisurely, sightseeing-only trip but one packed with wine, learning, and scenic views.

Potential Downsides

Some reviewers note that one winery visit can feel rushed or less engaging if you’re not into self-guided tours, but overall, the guided experiences at Jean-Marc Brocard and Régnard are highly praised. A small hiccup was reported when a vehicle issue caused a last-minute cancellation for one participant, but this seems rare and was handled by alternative arrangements.

Also, as with most wine tours, meals and souvenirs are extra, so budget accordingly. The tour stops at only four domains — though they’re quite distinguished — some might wish for more domain visits or a different selection, especially on Sundays when certain wineries are closed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for anyone wanting a comprehensive, guided introduction to Chablis wines without the hassle of organizing multiple tastings themselves. It’s especially suited for small groups that want a more intimate experience, with knowledgeable guides explaining the nuances between different wines and classifications.

If you’re interested in learning about Burgundy’s wine hierarchy, visiting historic wineries, and sampling top-tier wines in a single day, this tour is a solid pick. It’s also perfect if you prefer efficient travel — the Mercedes vehicle saves you time while providing comfort.

On the downside, if you’re not a big fan of long days or prefer a more relaxed pace, this might be a bit intensive. Those looking for a very casual or budget-friendly experience may find it a touch pricey, but the quality of visits and tastings justifies the cost for many.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, you can opt for pickup from your hotel if booked in advance.

How long does the drive from Paris to Chablis take?
Approximately 2.5 hours, with a rest stop included.

What wines are tasted during the tour?
A total of 20 wines, including Chablis, Chablis 1-er Cru, Grand Cru, Petit Chablis, and Premier Cru, across four domains.

Are the visits guided?
Yes, at Jean-Marc Brocard and Maison Régnard, guides lead you through the cellars and tastings. Other visits may be self-guided or less formal.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is optional and paid separately at a restaurant in Chablis.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 4-7 people, making for a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Is this tour suitable for families?
It’s primarily a wine-focused experience, suited for adults. It doesn’t mention specific family accommodations or children’s activities.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and shoes for walking and cellar visits. Weather-dependent, so check if outdoor time is involved.

Final Thoughts

If you’re eager to explore Burgundy’s celebrated Chablis wines with knowledgeable guides and in a small-group setting, this tour offers a well-rounded day filled with tastings, scenic views, and educational stops. The combination of high-quality wineries, efficient transportation, and personalized attention makes it a compelling choice for serious wine enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

While the price might seem a bit steep, the inclusive nature of visits, tastings, and guided commentary justifies the expense. It’s a great way to deepen your understanding of Burgundy’s wine hierarchy while enjoying the relaxed charm of Chablis. Just be prepared for a full day — but one full of delicious wines and memorable experiences.