Clos Montmartre ‘Paris in your Glass’ Wine Tasting

If you’re curious about Montmartre’s connection to wine and want to experience it firsthand, this tour promises a relaxed, informative peek into the neighborhood’s vinous history. We’ve seen plenty of wine tours in Paris, but this one from Paris Wine Walks stands out for its focus on vineyard visits coupled with tastings—something not all tours offer. It’s a great fit if you’re into history, good wine, and walking through one of Paris’ most picturesque districts, and you’re okay with some uphill walking.

Two things we especially like about this experience: First, the guides are praised for their knowledge, making the history and stories about Montmartre’s vineyards come alive. Second, the wine tasting at a lively local wine bar offers a genuine, authentic experience with top-notch wines—many reviewers mention how much they enjoyed the selection and the guide’s way of explaining it all.

A potential drawback? The tour involves a fair amount of uphill walking and stairs, meaning it’s best suited for those in decent physical shape. If you’re not comfortable with a bit of a climb or have mobility concerns, this might feel a little strenuous.

This tour will appeal most to adventurous wine lovers, history buffs, or those wanting a different angle on Montmartre beyond the usual art and cafes. It’s a thoughtful way to spend part of an afternoon if you’re visiting Paris and want a blend of culture, history, and wine.

Key Points

• Exclusive vineyard visits make this experience stand out among Paris tours.
• The knowledgeable guides are highly praised for their storytelling skills.
• Authentic wine tasting in a lively Parisian wine bar adds real flavor to the experience.
• Hilly terrain and stairs require moderate physical fitness.
• The tour offers a deep dive into Montmartre’s history, especially its vinous past.
• Pre-bookings are recommended, usually around 50 days in advance, reflecting its popularity.

Exploring Montmartre Through Wine and History

Montmartre is one of Paris’ most charming neighborhoods—famous for its artistic past, winding streets, and that sweeping view of the city from Sacré-Cœur. But locals also remember it as a historic wine-growing area, with vineyards like the Clos Montmartre playing a part in shaping the district’s character. This tour beautifully weaves together the story of Montmartre’s vineyards, its artistic heritage, and the role wine played in its development.

Starting at the Église Saint-Pierre de Montmartre, you’ll step back in time to when Roman columns and ancient buildings marked this hilltop. Your guide will tell stories about the church’s Roman roots and its past surrounded by vineyards, painting a picture of this neighborhood’s rural days. It’s a small, free stop but sets the historical tone for what follows.

Next, the tour takes you through La Bonne Franquette, a favorite haunt for local artists including Van Gogh. The courtyard here still radiates that bohemian vibe, making you feel like you’ve stepped into a different era. From there, you’ll see the Commanderie du Clos-Montmartre, once a water tower, now a hub for wine enthusiasts and one of the few wine fraternities in Paris. It’s a neat little glimpse into how wine culture persists in the city.

The Artistic and Cultural Highlights

A walk through Montmartre wouldn’t be complete without touching on its quirky sculptures and scenic viewpoints. You’ll pass the Le Passe-Muraille, a bronze sculpture inspired by Marcel Aymé’s story, which adds a playful touch. The iconic Moulin de la Galette windmills remind us of the neighborhood’s rural past, once milling grains and serving hearty galettes—a signature local bread.

From Square Suzanne-Buisson, there’s a striking reminder of the neighborhood’s vine roots: a long grapevine at the park’s entrance. Here, your guide will explain about vine cultivation, pruning, and the many grape varieties used in wine-making, emphasizing how deeply intertwined wine is with Montmartre’s identity.

Another highlight is the Dalida statue and the panoramic view of rue de l’Abreuvoir, which gives you a perfect backdrop for photos and some quiet moments before heading to the vineyards.

The Vineyards and the Heart of the Tour

The Vigne du Clos Montmartre is undoubtedly the star of the experience. This tiny vineyard, nestled among city streets, packs a punch in its historical significance. It’s a great example of how urban vineyards can still thrive and contribute to Parisian charm. The guide will share the vineyard’s story, its resilience, and the role it plays today.

From the vineyard, a short walk leads to the Musee de Montmartre, where the Renoir Garden offers a lovely vantage point for a detailed recounting of the vineyard’s history. This spot provides a peaceful setting to reflect on how wine and arts have long gone hand in hand here.

The Tasting Experience at Place Du Tertre

Your final stop is the lively Place Du Tertre, famous for artists painting and selling their work. Here, you’ll settle into a well-loved local wine bar for your one-hour tasting session. The wines selected are well-curated, and the guide makes a point of explaining their nuances in a friendly, accessible way.

Reviewers consistently mention that the guides make the wines easy to understand and the experience enjoyable, not stuffy. It’s the perfect cap to a walk that combines history, scenic views, and authentic Parisian wine culture.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

The tour starts at 3:30 pm from Église Saint-Pierre de Montmartre and typically lasts about 2 hours 20 minutes to 3 hours. The group size is capped at 110, but most reviews describe the group as intimate enough to feel personal and engaging.

The cost is around $122.17 per person, which might seem steep at first glance. But considering the vineyard visits, the guided storytelling, and the wine tasting, many find it to be good value, especially if you’re interested in more than just drinking wine—this is a walking history lesson with tastings.

Be aware that getting to Montmartre involves uphill walking, some stairs, and a bit of energy. This tour is best suited for those with moderate physical fitness. If stairs or steep inclines are a concern, plan accordingly.

Booking well in advance is wise; most guests book about 50 days ahead, highlighting its popularity. Cancellation is straightforward with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

What Travelers Say

The reviews are quite glowing. Many highlight the expertise and friendliness of the guide, Geoffrey, who makes the history engaging and fun. Comments like “Geoffrey is a blast with so many fun anecdotes” and “The wine tasting was superb” reinforce that this tour isn’t just about facts—it’s about enjoying the experience.

Several reviewers mention how the walk around Montmartre was educational and fun, and the wine selection was top-notch. One guest appreciated how the guide made the different wines easy to understand, which is a big plus for those new to wine tasting.

The Sum Up

This Montmartre wine tour offers a well-rounded experience that combines history, culture, stunning views, and authentic wine tastings. It’s ideal for those who want to explore Montmartre beyond the usual art and cafes, especially if you appreciate a good story and a glass of wine at the end. The guided visits to the vineyards and historic sites, paired with a convivial tasting, make for a memorable afternoon.

While the walk involves some uphill terrain, the rewards are worth it—pretty vistas, fascinating stories, and some delicious wine. This is particularly suited for curious travelers who enjoy learning as they go and aren’t put off by a bit of physical activity.

If your idea of a great Paris experience includes hidden gems, local wine, and a good dose of history, this tour should be on your list.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is primarily designed for adults interested in wine, history, and walking. It involves uphill walking and wine tastings, so it’s best for those in moderate physical condition. Children might not find the wine tasting as engaging, but older kids with an interest in history or wine could enjoy the scenic walk.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts roughly 2 hours 20 minutes to 3 hours, including stops and the wine tasting.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes visits to historic sites, vineyard viewing, a guided story about wine in Montmartre, and the wine tasting at the end.

Does this tour involve a lot of walking?
Yes, expect uphill walking and some stairs, especially on the way to the vineyards and scenic viewpoints.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking about 50 days ahead is common, as it’s a popular experience.

Is the tour family-friendly?
While not specifically marketed as family-oriented, older children or teenagers interested in history or wine may enjoy it. The physical aspect might be challenging for those with mobility issues.

Are the wines local?
Yes, the tasting features wines connected to Montmartre’s vineyard, the Clos Montmartre, one of Paris’ few city vineyards.

What’s the guide like?
Reviewers consistently praise the guides, especially Geoffrey, for their knowledge, storytelling, and friendly approach.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.

Is this experience suitable for a romantic outing?
Absolutely. The scenic views, vineyards, and intimate tasting make it a charming choice for couples wanting a relaxed, cultural experience.

If you’re after an original way to explore Montmartre and enjoy some quality wine, this tour offers a thoughtful blend of history and tasting in a lively, authentic setting.