Bordeaux: Taste 4 Wines with a Certified Sommelier

If you’re eyeing a wine experience in Bordeaux but want something more than just swirling and sipping, this tour offers a pretty well-rounded introduction. Taught by Guadalupe, a Certified CMS Sommelier with a WSET diploma, it’s designed to give you a taste of Bordeaux’s famous wines — along with a dash of educational insight. Whether you’re a budding wine enthusiast or just curious about what makes Bordeaux wines so iconic, this is a tour that promises both flavor and knowledge.

What we really like about this experience is how accessible it is; you don’t need any prior wine knowledge to join, and Guadalupe’s approachable style makes everything easy to understand. Plus, the location—a charming wine bar in the heart of Bordeaux—sets a cozy, authentic scene. On the flip side, some might find the price a tad high for what’s essentially a tasting, but considering the quality of guidance and wines, many would agree it’s worth it. If you’re in Bordeaux and want a relaxed, informative, and tasty intro to the region’s wines, this tour is a solid choice.

Key Points

• Educational and fun: Perfect for beginners, with clear explanations of Bordeaux wine classifications, grapes, and tasting notes.
• Great value for money: Includes four wines, cheese pairing, and expert guidance in a welcoming setting.
• Flexible options: You can opt for a more premium tasting of Grand Cru Classé wines—ideal for wine aficionados.
• Central location: Easy to find, right in the city center, next to tram stops.
• Small group size: Intimate experience with a maximum of 10 participants.
• No prior experience needed: Just bring your curiosity and appetite for good wine.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: What to Expect

This tour runs about 1.5 to 2 hours, making it a manageable yet immersive outing. Guadalupe, the guide, is a certified sommelier with a wealth of knowledge and a friendly approach. From the moment you arrive at L’Ampélo in Bordeaux’s lively city center, you’ll feel at ease. The venue is a cozy wine bar where locals hang out, giving you a genuine feel of Bordeaux’s wine culture.

The Tasting Breakdown

You’ll start with a sparkling wine, Crémant de Bordeaux, which immediately sets a festive tone. Guadalupe will tell you about Bordeaux’s sparkling wine scene, which many travelers might not realize is part of the region’s portfolio. Then, you’ll move on to a crisp white wine, followed by two reds. Each pour is generous enough for tasting and discussion.

What You’ll Learn

Guadalupe’s explanations cover a variety of topics that add depth to the tasting. She’ll talk about Bordeaux’s appellations, explaining how the region is divided and what makes each part unique. Expect insights into the soil types and how they influence flavor profiles, as well as how to read wine labels—something that can seem confusing at first glance. She’ll also cover winemaking techniques and the specific grapes and blends that define Bordeaux wines.

Cheese Pairing

Paired with your wines is a platter of three different French cheeses. The pairing elevates the tasting, offering a contrast that emphasizes the wine’s aromas and flavors. It’s a simple but effective way to enjoy the wines more fully, and many reviews mention how much they appreciated the cheese options.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Premium Option

For those eager for a more exclusive experience, Guadalupe offers a premium tasting of Grand Cru Classé and Classified wines. This extends the session to about two hours and includes tasting up to seven wines. It’s a good way to dive deeper into Bordeaux’s more prestigious bottles, though keep in mind this comes at a higher price.

Practical Details

The total cost is $59 per person, which, for what’s included, is quite reasonable. For that price, you get four glasses of wine, a cheese platter, and expert guidance. If you opt for the premium tasting, you’ll pay extra but gain access to some of Bordeaux’s best wines.

The tour is suitable for ages 18 and over, with non-alcoholic options like fruit juice available for younger or non-drinking participants. The small group size means you’ll get personalized attention, and the meeting point is conveniently located next to tram stops in Bordeaux—easy to reach from most city accommodations.

Note that hotel pick-up and drop-off aren’t included, so plan to meet Guadalupe inside the wine bar. The experience is offered in English and Spanish, making it accessible to a broad range of travelers.

What the Reviews Say

The majority of feedback about this tour is glowing. Travelers frequently mention Guadalupe’s knowledge and personable style, highlighting how she makes wine accessible and fun. One reviewer from the UK called it “a privilege to share” the wines with Guadalupe, noting her passion and insights. Others appreciated learning how to detect different aromas and notes, which can be quite empowering if you’re new to tasting.

Some reviews pointed out that the wines served aren’t necessarily high-end or rare, but the quality is decent, and the focus is on learning rather than exclusivity. The cozy ambiance, coupled with Guadalupe’s friendliness, makes it a memorable experience. One traveler from the US said, “Guadalupe was extremely knowledgeable and provided more information on the area in addition to the wine,” which highlights how the guide enriches the experience beyond just the tasting.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience suits anyone curious about Bordeaux wines, especially if you’re new to wine tasting or want a relaxed, informative introduction. It’s also a good pick for those interested in learning how to identify wine aromas and understand labels. If you’re a more seasoned wine lover looking for rare or vintage bottles, this might be a bit basic, but the premium option offers a taste of Bordeaux’s finest.

Travelers who enjoy pairing food and drink, or who appreciate friendly, expert guides, will find this tour particularly satisfying. It’s also a good choice for those who prefer small groups and a casual setting over large, commercial tastings.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this Bordeaux wine tasting with Guadalupe offers a thoughtful balance of education, flavor, and local charm. It’s a well-organized experience that emphasizes learning and enjoyment over high-pressure sales or pretentiousness. The setting is intimate and authentic, ideal for visitors who want to get a genuine taste of Bordeaux’s wine scene without straying too far from the city’s heart.

While the price might seem steep at first glance, the inclusion of four high-quality wines, expert guidance, and cheese pairing makes it a worthwhile investment, especially if you’re keen to understand what makes Bordeaux wines so special. The opportunity to ask questions and interact with Guadalupe makes this feel more like a personalized lesson than a standard tasting.

If you’re in Bordeaux and eager for a friendly, educational wine adventure, this tour should definitely be on your list. It’s a chance to pick up new skills, enjoy great wines, and learn from someone who clearly loves sharing her knowledge.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, no prior wine knowledge is required. Guadalupe makes everything easy to understand and fun, perfect for newcomers.

How many wines will I taste?
The standard option includes four wines: a sparkling, a white, and two reds. There’s also an option for a premium tasting of up to seven wines, including Grand Cru Classé bottles.

Are non-drinkers accommodated?
Yes, fruit juice is available for under-18s or non-drinkers, so everyone can participate and enjoy the experience.

Where do I meet Guadalupe?
Inside the wine bar called L’Ampélo, located at 3 rue Gobineau, next to the Quinconces tram stop.

Is there a time limit for cancellations?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

How large are the groups?
The tour is limited to 10 participants, which helps ensure a more personalized experience.

What languages are offered?
The experience is available in English and Spanish, making it accessible to most travelers.

Does the tour include transportation?
No, it doesn’t include hotel pick-up or drop-off, so plan to meet inside the wine bar.

If you’re after a relaxed, friendly introduction to Bordeaux wines without the fuss, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for those wanting a taste of the region’s best, paired with expert insights and good company.

You can check availability for your dates here: