Bordeaux Full Day Wine Tour – 3 Wineries & Gourmet Picnic Lunch

Thinking about spending a day enjoying Bordeaux’s celebrated wine culture? This full-day wine tour from Bordeaux promises to take you through some of the most scenic vineyards, with visits to three different wineries, a gourmet picnic, and a charming stroll through the UNESCO-listed Saint-Emilion village. It’s a package designed for wine lovers who want a relaxed yet comprehensive experience, with plenty of tastings and a chance to appreciate the region’s diversity.

What we really like about this experience? First, the small-group setting means you’ll get much more attention from your guide than on larger tours, often leading to more personalized insights. Second, the gourmet picnic lunch in the vineyards is a highlight, offering a real taste of local produce paired with estate wines—not just a quick snack, but a proper, memorable meal in stunning surroundings.

However, a word of caution—this is a full-day tour lasting about 9 hours, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a busy schedule and a fair amount of walking and standing. Also, the tour is tailored mostly for those over 18, given the wine tasting element, so it’s not ideal for families with young children.

If you’re serious about Bordeaux wine, enjoy beautiful scenery, and want a well-rounded experience that includes both guided tastings and free time to explore, this tour could be a fantastic choice. It’s particularly good if you’re traveling with a small group or prefer a more intimate, engaging way to learn about the region.

Key Points

• Small-group experience with a maximum of 8 people enhances personalized attention.
• All-inclusive tastings and lunch mean you won’t need to worry about extra costs during the day.
• Visits to three wineries, including a family-owned estate, offer diverse wine styles and insights.
• Walking tour of Saint-Emilion gives a charming peek into one of France’s most picturesque villages.
• Expert guides like Clem, Nate, and Mel make the experience friendly, informative, and engaging.
• Good value considering the number of tastings, lunch, and the overall experience, especially when booked in advance.

The Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Starting in Bordeaux

Your day kicks off at the Bordeaux Tourist Office around 9:05 am. Meeting your guide here is straightforward, especially if you’re staying nearby or using public transit. It’s a simple start, but it sets the tone for a well-organized day.

First Stop: Pessac-Léognan & Graves Wineries

The drive out of Bordeaux immediately transports you into a different world—vine-covered hills and peaceful countryside. Your guide will take you to Pessac-Léognan or Graves, renowned for both red and white wines. These areas produce some of Bordeaux’s most prestigious wines; expect to visit a highly regarded estate for a tasting that lasts over two hours.

The reviews highlight how engaging guides like Clem or Nate make these visits particularly enjoyable. One reviewer mentioned that the guides are “super informative, friendly, and polite,” making the experience feel more like a friendly chat than a formal tasting. You’ll taste both reds and whites, with insights into what makes Bordeaux wines unique—such as the terroir and winemaking techniques.

Lunch in the Vines

Next, you’ll enjoy a gourmet picnic-style lunch at a château, paired with wines selected by the estate. The meal typically includes charcuterie, cheeses, and locally made produce. It’s a chance to relax, chat with fellow travelers, and sample more Bordeaux wines. Many reviews mention how much they enjoyed this part, calling it a “standout” experience. For example, one reviewer said, “the lunch was authentic and a nice selection of wines,” adding that it was a great way to break up the day.

Saint-Emilion Exploration

After lunch, it’s time to wander the medieval streets of Saint-Emilion. This UNESCO-listed village is undoubtedly a highlight—think cobbled streets, ancient buildings, and vineyards everywhere. Your guide will give you a short, guided walking tour, pointing out key sights and sharing stories about the town’s history and its wine heritage.

Expect to spend about an hour here, soaking in the atmosphere and taking photos. Many travelers talk about Saint-Emilion being a “highlight,” and reviews consistently praise the charming streets and local vibe. It’s a perfect blend of sightseeing and wine appreciation.

Final Winery: Pomerol or Saint-Emilion

The tour wraps up with a visit to a château in Pomerol or Saint-Emilion, where you’ll enjoy one last exclusive tasting. These visits tend to be more intimate, often hosted by the family or the owner themselves, providing a real behind-the-scenes feel. One reviewer called the last stop “stellar,” highlighting how the host’s knowledge and friendliness made the experience memorable.

Returning to Bordeaux

After a full day of wine, views, and stories, your guide will bring you back to the starting point around 5 pm. It’s a well-paced schedule, with enough time at each stop to enjoy and learn without feeling rushed.

What Sets This Tour Apart

Personalized Approach & Small Group Size

One of the most praised aspects is the small group size, capped at 8 people. This creates a more relaxed atmosphere, allowing guides to tailor the experience, answer questions, and foster a sense of camaraderie. Multiple reviews mention how “the guide made everyone feel comfortable,” and how the intimacy enhanced the experience.

Expert Guides and Friendly Hosts

From Clem to Mel to Nate, the guides are consistently praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and humor. They’re not just there to pour wine; they’re there to share stories, explain nuances, and keep the mood lively. One traveler said, “Annabelle kept the tour fun while being educational,” embodying the balance most guides strike well.

The Gourmet Picnic Lunch

The lunch in the vines is often highlighted as a highlight—authentic, well-made, and paired with quality wines. It’s a rare treat to get such a meal in a vineyard setting rather than just a quick snack, making this tour feel like an indulgent day rather than a rushed trip.

Value for Money

Considering the all-inclusive tastings, lunch, transportation, and guided experience, many reviews rate it as great value. The price of around $202.75 per person is reasonable for what you get, especially if you’re looking for a comprehensive, yet relaxed, Bordeaux wine adventure.

Practical Details That Matter

Duration & Comfort

At roughly 9 hours long, this is a full-day experience, so wear comfortable shoes and plan for a day on your feet. The transportation is in an air-conditioned minivan, which adds comfort, particularly during warmer months or in summer. The small group size means less waiting and more interaction.

Booking & Planning

Most travelers book about 74 days in advance, which is a good sign that it’s popular and worth planning early. The tour departs promptly at 9:05 am, so being on time is crucial. They recommend wearing comfortable shoes—Saint-Emilion’s cobbled streets can be uneven—and mention that vegetarian and gluten-free options are available if requested 72 hours ahead.

Cost & What’s Included

The price covers transportation, guide, visits, tastings, and lunch. It’s a pretty comprehensive package, so the only extra you might want to bring is bottled water—since they no longer provide it to reduce environmental impact.

Accessibility & Group Size

With a cap of 8 travelers, this is a cozy, personalized experience. The tour is near public transportation, making it accessible if you’re staying in Bordeaux city center.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts eager to explore Bordeaux’s different sub-regions without the hassle of planning individual visits. Its small-group format is perfect if you value personal attention and a relaxed pace. The gourmet picnic makes it attractive for foodies who appreciate pairing local cuisine with wine.

It’s also suited for travelers who want a rundown in one day—the combination of wine tastings, sightseeing, and a charming village visit makes for a well-rounded trip. While not designed for families with young children, wine-drinking adults will find it both educational and enjoyable. If you’re traveling solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

How many wineries will I visit?
You’ll visit three wineries during the day, including a prestigious estate and a family-owned vineyard, with tastings at each.

What’s included in the price?
The tour covers transportation in an air-conditioned minivan, a local guide, up to 10 tastings, and a gourmet picnic lunch with wine.

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions?
Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available if requested 72 hours before the tour. Vegan options aren’t guaranteed, so check in advance.

How long is each stop?
Expect to spend around 2 hours at each winery, plus an hour exploring Saint-Emilion, with some variation depending on the day.

What’s the group size?
A maximum of 8 travelers ensures an intimate and personalized experience.

Do I need to prepare anything in advance?
Booking early is recommended, especially if you want specific dietary accommodations. Wear comfortable shoes and bring your own water if desired.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, the minimum drinking age is 18, so it’s not suitable for children or teenagers.

What about the travel time?
The tour starts and ends in Bordeaux city center, with most of the day spent in the countryside and Saint-Emilion.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel more than 24 hours before the start time. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Final Thoughts

This Bordeaux full-day wine tour offers a balanced mix of scenic vineyard visits, expert-guided tastings, and charming sightseeing, all wrapped up in a friendly, small-group setting. It’s best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, relaxed experience without the feeling of rushing from place to place. The inclusion of a gourmet picnic in the vineyards adds a special touch that elevates the whole day.

If you’re eager to learn about Bordeaux wines, explore Saint-Emilion’s cobblestone streets, and enjoy local flavors in an authentic setting, this tour hits the right notes. It’s a thoughtfully curated way to spend a day in Bordeaux—whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving a memorable wine adventure.

Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or a curious traveler wanting a taste of Bordeaux’s culinary and vinicultural treasures, this tour offers a well-rounded and genuine experience. It’s about quality, comfort, and discovering the region’s true essence, all in one satisfying package.