St-Emilion & Médoc Combine Day Tour including Wine Tastings and Lunch

If you’re planning a trip to Bordeaux and have a passion for wine or just want to see some beautiful countryside, this Saint-Emilion & Médoc day tour might be exactly what you’re looking for. While many wine trips can be overwhelming or feel rushed, this experience promises a well-paced, intimate look at two of the region’s most famous wine areas, complete with expert guides, tastings, and even a picnic lunch.

From what travelers have shared, what stands out are the knowledgeable guides and the diversity of wineries, which make the day both educational and enjoyable. Plus, the stunning scenery of the medieval village of Saint-Emilion and the lush vineyards of Médoc really make the whole experience memorable. That said, it’s worth noting that the tour’s pace can be quite full, and those wanting more time in Saint-Emilion might find it a bit rushed.

One potential consideration is the group size—with a maximum of 8 travelers, it’s quite intimate, but that also means spots can fill up quickly, especially if you’re booking well in advance (avg. 43 days ahead). This tour is ideal for wine lovers who appreciate a mix of history, scenery, and, of course, plenty of tastings. It’s especially suited for those who want a structured, thoughtfully curated day that balances sightseeing and wine education.

Key Points

• All-inclusive Experience: From transportation to tastings and lunch, everything is taken care of, which means no fuss.
• Expert-guided Tours: Guides like Maude, Daniella, and Theo are highly praised for their knowledge and friendliness.
• Diverse Wineries: Visits include family-run vineyards and famous estates, providing a good mix of styles and history.
• Beautiful Locations: You’ll walk around the UNESCO-listed town of Saint-Emilion and drive through the Médoc region’s scenic vineyards.
• Food & Drink: A French picnic lunch with wine is included, making this a true taste of the region.
• Small Group: With a maximum of 8 travelers, expect a personalized experience with plenty of interaction.

The Itinerary: What to Expect on the Day

Starting Point in Bordeaux

The adventure begins at Rustic Vines in Bordeaux, where you meet your guide. From there, a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle whisks you off to Médoc in about 45 minutes. This setup is perfect because it minimizes the hassle of navigating yourself and allows you to relax and soak in the scenery.

First Stop: Château Margaux

Your first photo opportunity is at Château Margaux, one of the most recognizable names in Bordeaux’s wine history—especially its 1855 First Growth classification. While there’s no admission fee here, the brief stop offers a chance to snap some pictures of this iconic estate. Travelers note that it’s a quick stop, but it’s a memorable one.

Château Siran – Médoc Vineyard Tour

Next, you visit Château Siran, where a guided tour lasts about an hour. Here, you’ll get insight into the winemaking process from family-run vineyards, and of course, enjoy tastings. The reviews consistently mention how much they appreciated the guides’ knowledge and the variety of wines tasted, which range from approachable to more complex.

Château Bonalgue – Saint-Emilion

Afterward, the focus shifts to Saint-Emilion, starting with Château Bonalgue. This is one of the first wineries in the Saint-Emilion region for a visit, followed by a tasting session. Travelers find this stop particularly charming, and the wines are praised for their quality and diversity.

Picnic Lunch

A highlight for many is the included French style picnic lunch with wine. It’s a chance to relax and chat with your fellow travelers over delicious, simple fare complemented by wine. Several reviews emphasize how much they enjoyed the lunch and the generous servings of wine, describing it as “bottomless” at times, which adds to the fun.

Château Balestard La Tonnelle

Next, you visit another Saint-Emilion estate—Château Balestard La Tonnelle—for tastings. This beautiful Grand Cru estate offers yet another perspective on local wine styles, and visitors have commented on how picturesque the setting is.

Saint-Emilion Walking Tour & Tasting

The picturesque medieval village of Saint-Emilion is a major highlight. You get a guided walk through its winding streets, soaking in the history and ambiance. This walk lasts about 30 minutes but is enough to appreciate the town’s charm and browse for souvenirs. Afterward, a wine tasting session in the heart of the village offers a more relaxed, immersive experience.

Return to Bordeaux

The day wraps up with a 45-minute drive back to Bordeaux. Once back, your guide will drop you off at the meeting point, leaving you with plenty of memories—and probably a few bottles of wine, depending on your shopping.

What We Loved About the Experience

Travelers consistently praise the guides’ expertise and friendliness. Maude, Daniella, and Theo get glowing reviews for their ability to make wine and regional history accessible and fun. It’s clear that the guides genuinely care about sharing their knowledge and making sure everyone leaves with a better understanding—and a smile.

The diversity of visits is another big plus. From the historic charm of Saint-Emilion to the renowned Médoc estates, you get a balanced picture of Bordeaux’s wine landscape. The fact that the tour includes both the “famous” and “family-run” wineries means you see a variety of styles and learn about different approaches to winemaking.

The scenery is stunning throughout the day. The rolling vineyards, medieval streets, and historic chateaus make for plenty of photo opportunities, and you don’t have to be a serious wine buff to appreciate the visual feast.

The Value for Money

At around $226.76 per person, the tour is priced reasonably for what’s included. With a full day of guided visits, tastings at multiple wineries, a picnic lunch, and transportation, many reviewers say it offers excellent value, especially considering the personalized experience with a small group.

While the price might seem steep, it’s important to remember that the experience covers a lot—expert guides, multiple tastings, and the convenience of transportation all add up. Plus, the opportunity to explore both the Médoc and Saint-Emilion in one day is rare and quite efficient.

The Downsides to Keep in Mind

No tour is perfect, and this one has a few considerations. The schedule can be tight, with only about 30 minutes in Saint-Emilion’s town center, which some might find rushing if they want more time to explore. The visit at Château Margaux is brief, but that’s typical given the estate’s private nature and size of the stop.

Also, since the group is small, availability may be limited during peak times, so booking early (on average 43 days in advance) is recommended. Finally, if you’re not particularly interested in wine or history, or if you prefer a more flexible itinerary, this tour might feel a bit structured.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts eager to learn more about Bordeaux’s famous regions without having to plan logistics themselves. The guided approach means you’ll get insider insights that would be hard to access alone. It’s also perfect for travelers who want a rundown of both Médoc and Saint-Emilion in a single day, especially if they appreciate scenic drives and charming towns.

If you’re traveling solo, you’ll appreciate the small group size, which fosters a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. Couples and small groups of friends looking for a well-organized, immersive wine day will find this especially appealing. It’s less suited for those looking for a casual, freeform day or for families with young children, as the focus is on wine tastings and walking tours.

FAQs About the Bordeaux Wine Tour

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Bordeaux is part of the package, making it convenient and comfortable.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 9 hours, offering a full day of sightseeing, tasting, and exploring.

Are the wine tastings unlimited?
While the tour includes multiple tastings at each winery and a picnic lunch with wine, the reviews suggest the tastings are generous, with some describing them as “bottomless,” so you can expect plenty of wine to sample.

Is there a dress code?
The tour doesn’t specify a dress code, but comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around Saint-Emilion and wineries.

Can vegetarians join?
Yes, a vegetarian option is available for lunch.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book around 43 days ahead, so planning early is advised.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly mentioned, this tour is primarily wine-focused and involves walking and wine tastings, so it’s best suited for adults.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews consistently praise the guides for their friendliness and expertise.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a carefully curated, approachable way to experience Bordeaux’s celebrated wine regions, this Saint-Emilion & Médoc tour really hits the mark. It combines scenic drives, informative guides, and plenty of tastings, all wrapped up in a small-group format that feels personal and relaxed. While the schedule can be a bit tight for those wanting more time in Saint-Emilion, the overall value, quality of wineries, and friendly guides make this an option worth considering.

For travelers who want a memorable day of wine, history, and beautiful scenery, this tour offers a thoughtfully balanced, engaging introduction to Bordeaux’s viticultural treasures. It’s the kind of experience that leaves you not just with a few bottles, but with stories and insights that deepen your appreciation for French wine and culture.