Exquisite Wines Tasting Chateau Pommard, Chablis Small-Group Trip

If you’re dreaming of spending a day exploring some of France’s most renowned wine regions without the hassle of planning, this small-group Burgundy tour from Paris could be just what you’re looking for. While we haven’t sampled it ourselves, the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews paint a pretty appealing picture for wine lovers, history buffs, or anyone curious about Burgundy’s famed vineyards.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the carefully curated visits to prestigious domaines like Château Pommard and several Chablis producers, combined with the convenience of roundtrip transport in a luxury Mercedes minivan—no fussing with trains or rental cars. Plus, the chance to taste 15 different wines across multiple stops makes it a solid value for a full day of wine exploration.

But a word of caution: the tour runs around 14 hours—long days that require a bit of stamina. Also, it’s mostly designed for those who want a structured, guided experience rather than a spontaneous adventure. If you’re okay with busier days and some scheduled stops, this trip could fit well into your Burgundy itinerary.

All in all, this tour seems best suited for wine enthusiasts, curious travelers eager to learn about Burgundy’s terroir, or those who appreciate a blend of comfort and expert insight. It’s not ideal if you’re looking for an intimate, behind-the-scenes visit or a very relaxed pace, but for a comprehensive, guided overview, it hits many marks.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation in a luxury Mercedes minivan with extra legroom makes long drives more pleasant
• Expert-guided visits at renowned domaines provide valuable insights into Burgundy wines
• Tasting 15 wines across various wineries ensures a diverse and satisfying experience
• Includes transport and tastings, making it a convenient all-in-one day trip from Paris
• Optional lunch in Chablis offers flexibility for a break, though it’s paid separately
• Group size limited to 6 (or up to 7 in a larger private booking), fostering a personalized vibe

What to Expect on Your Burgundy Day Trip

This tour is designed to offer a broad yet detailed look at the Burgundy wine region, starting early in Paris and ending back after sunset. It’s a long day, but with good reason: you’ll visit notable vineyards, learn about wine production, and get to sample some truly exceptional wines. Here’s a closer look at the itinerary and what makes each stop special—or not.

Morning Departure and Scenic Drive

You’ll meet at the Opera Garnier steps or be picked up from your hotel if you’ve chosen that option. The drive to Chablis is around 2.5 hours in a sleek, air-conditioned Mercedes, which makes the long journey more comfortable. The car has extra legroom and adjustable seats, so you can relax during the scenic ride. A brief stop at a rest area also helps stretch your legs before the first tasting.

Domaine Jean-Marc Brocard – The First Taste of Chablis

Arriving in the Chablis region, your first visit is to Domaine Jean-Marc Brocard. Here, you’ll get a guided tour of their cellar and vineyards, followed by a tasting of five wines with cheese, including Chablis, Chablis 1-er Cru, and Chablis Grand Cru. The staff’s explanations about the wine-making process help you understand what makes Chablis so unique—its mineral notes, the influence of the cool climate, and the different classifications.

One reviewer, Michael, noted: “Our tour started off with the Chablis région. We had 2 tastings then had lunch. And then 2 more tastings. All were great! I would happily recommend this tour.” That sums up the varied experience here—educational, tasty, and scenic.

Exploring Chablis Village and Additional Tasting

Next, you’ll head into the actual village of Chablis for about an hour. You’ll have some free time to stroll through the charming streets, enjoy the views of vineyards, or grab a quick snack. Alternatively, there’s an option for a gastronomic lunch (payable directly), which many might find appealing after the morning’s tastings.

The second winery visit is to Domaine Céline et Frédéric GUEGUEN (or Baptiste), where you’ll sample another five wines, this time including Petit Chablis, Chablis, Chablis Premier Cru, and Chablis Grand Cru. The variety here helps illustrate the differences terroir and vineyard practices bring out in the wines.

Midday Break and Optional Lunch

The schedule allows some flexibility here. If you decide to eat in Chablis, you’ll pay directly at a local restaurant. Many reviews highlight the town’s delightful atmosphere and tasty local cuisine, making it a worthwhile pause amid the wine tastings.

Afternoon Drive to Château de Pommard

After the village visit, you’ll head south toward Château de Pommard, near Beaune. It’s about a 1.5-hour drive, giving you a chance to rest and enjoy more of the scenic Burgundy landscape. The château is one of Burgundy’s most famous domaines, surrounded by lush vineyards.

Château de Pommard – The Grand Finale

Arriving at Château de Pommard, you’ll participate in a guided tasting of five wines led by a professional sommelier. Here, you’ll learn about Burgundy’s main grapes—Pinot Noir and Chardonnay—and how their expression varies across different villages and terroirs.

One reviewer, Daniela, mentions: “The ville de Chablis is a beautiful town with gorgeous views and delicious wine and cheese tasting. We had to utilize a private chauffeur, Alex, who was very professional and got us safely to and from our hotel.” Though this was a different part of the tour, it hints at the overall professionalism and quality of the experience.

Return Trip and Evening Arrival in Paris

The drive back to Paris takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours, with a stop at a rest area along the way. You’ll arrive back at the Opera Garnier around 9-10 pm, completing a full and immersive day.

What We Like About This Tour

The combination of well-selected wineries is a real plus—you’re not just tasting wines, but also getting insights into their production and regional differences. The visits to Chablis and Château Pommard cover both the crisp, mineral-driven whites and the elegant reds Burgundy is famous for, offering a rundown.

Transportation in a luxury Mercedes minivan makes the long drives easier, especially since the seats are adjustable and offer extra legroom. The small-group size (max 6) ensures a more personalized experience and less waiting around during tastings or explanations.

The expert-guided tastings with knowledgeable staff add educational value, which many reviews appreciate. For instance, Daniela mentions how the views and wine tasting experience added to her enjoyment.

Flexibility in the schedule—with options for lunch and different winery visits on Sundays—allows some customization based on your preferences or schedules.

What Could Be Better?

A potential drawback is the long day’s length—14 hours is quite a commitment, especially if you’re not used to full-day tours. Some travelers, like Janet, pointed out that communication was a bit limited since the driver spoke little English and no guide was provided during the drive, though they still enjoyed the overall experience.

Plus, the cost (around $460 per person) isn’t cheap, but considering the transportation, guided tastings, and visits, many find it a good value—especially if you’re serious about wine. Still, it’s worth noting that meals and gratuities are not included, so budget accordingly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience appeals most to wine lovers eager to learn about Burgundy’s iconic wines in a structured setting. It’s perfect for those who want an all-in-one day trip with transportation, tastings, and expert guidance arranged for them. If you’ve got limited time in France but want a comprehensive wine experience, this tour packs in a lot.

It’s also suitable for those comfortable with long days on the road and who appreciate a small, intimate group for more personalized attention. If you’re traveling with friends or a partner who shares your love of wine, you’ll probably find this trip rewarding.

However, if you prefer more relaxed, spontaneous visits or want to explore vineyards at your own pace, this might feel a bit regimented. Also, if you’re traveling with family or children, note that the tour is quite long and geared towards adults interested specifically in wine.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for someone new to wine tasting?
Absolutely. The guided tastings are educational, and the staff explain the differences between the wines, making it accessible whether you’re a novice or a seasoned enthusiast.

Are meals included in the price?
No, meals are not included. You have the option to pay separately for lunch in Chablis, and the tour includes bottled water, but other food and drinks are on your tab.

What is the group size?
It’s a small-group experience, limited to 6 people, which helps create a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere.

Can I book this as a private tour?
Yes, private options are available, making it ideal if you want a more tailored experience or traveling with a small group.

How long does the tour last?
Expect around 14 hours from start to finish, including travel time, tastings, and breaks.

Is roundtrip transportation from Paris included?
Yes, the tour includes roundtrip transport in a Mercedes minivan or car, making logistics hassle-free.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which provides some peace of mind if your plans change.

Wrapping It Up

If you’re after a day of exploring Burgundy’s celebrated vineyards without the stress of planning, this small-group tour offers a well-rounded experience. You get to visit both Chablis and Château Pommard, taste a variety of wines, and learn from knowledgeable guides—all in comfort.

It’s particularly suited for wine aficionados eager to deepen their understanding of Burgundy’s terroirs and classifications, or those who simply want a taste of France’s world-famous wine country in a single day. While long and packed, it offers a comprehensive snapshot of Burgundy’s vinous treasures.

Just keep in mind the full-day commitment and the need to be prepared for a busy schedule. If those fit your travel style, you’ll likely find this tour to be a rewarding, memorable adventure.