If you’re planning a trip to the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region and want a taste of something different, this tour at Château de Chamirey might just fit the bill. While there are plenty of traditional wine tastings around Burgundy, this experience offers a refreshing twist—a guided 4×4 ride through the vineyards, followed by a tasting of five signature wines. It’s a great way to get an overview of the area’s terroirs without feeling like you’re just walking around with a glass in hand.
What really caught our eye about this experience are the stunning views of the hillsides and the chance to learn about how different plots and soils influence the wines. Plus, the small group size (limited to five people) means you get plenty of attention from the guide and can ask all your burning questions. But, it’s worth noting that it’s not suited for everyone—so if you’re in a wheelchair or with very young children, this might not be the best fit.
One potential downside? The tour is just about two hours, so it’s a fairly quick peek at the vineyard landscape and wines. If you’re after a long, in-depth exploration or a leisurely meal paired with your wines, you might want to look elsewhere. Still, if you’re after a compact, scenic, and educational experience that combines nature, expertise, and excellent wines, this could be just right.
This tour is especially well-suited for those who enjoy a bit of adventure, love beautiful scenery, or want a more dynamic way to learn about Burgundy’s wine culture without walking miles. It’s equally appealing if you’re traveling with friends, a partner, or even as a small family with older kids interested in wine.
This experience made our article of The 3 Best Tours In Chalon Sur Saone.
Key Points
- Unique 4×4 Vineyard Tour: Instead of a typical walk, you’ll explore the terrain in an all-terrain vehicle, which offers a different perspective on the vineyards.
- Breathtaking Views: The hills, stone walls, and valley vistas make this a visually memorable experience.
- Expert-Led Tasting: A guided tasting of five wines helps you understand how terroir influences style and elegance.
- Small Group Experience: Limited to five participants, making it more personal and engaging.
- Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
- Additional Food Option: You can buy a cheese and charcuterie platter for around $15, but food isn’t included in the base price.
A Closer Look at the Experience
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The 4×4 Vineyard Tour: Seeing Burgundy from a New Angle
Imagine climbing into a sturdy off-road vehicle, ready to traverse the rolling hills of Mercurey. This isn’t your usual vineyard stroll—you’re taken on a guided drive through some of the most picturesque plots in the Mercurey Village and Premiers Crus appellations. The tour lasts about an hour, but it’s packed with visual delights—sun-drenched hillsides, ancient stone walls, and sweeping views of the valley.
Our hypothetical guide (based on reviews and the info available) would explain how different plots are cultivated and how their unique soils affect the grapes. As one reviewer put it, “It was a top experience to see the different vine types and soils from a 4×4—more engaging than just walking around.” The vehicle’s open sides ensure you don’t miss a thing and give you plenty of opportunities to snap photos or just soak in the scenery.
Learning About Terroirs and Vineyards
One of the most appreciated aspects of this tour is the insight into terroirs. Burgundy is famed for its distinctive soils and microclimates, and this experience offers a chance to see these differences firsthand. The guide’s explanations help connect the dots between soil types, sun exposure, and the wine’s style—something that often feels abstract in standard tastings.
The Guided Tasting: Five Iconic Vintages
After the scenic drive, you settle into a comfortable spot for a tasting led by a knowledgeable expert. You’ll sample five of Château de Chamirey’s signature wines, each representing a different aspect of the domaine’s style. The reviews highlight that the tasting isn’t rushed; instead, it’s a chance to understand how vineyard practices and terroir influence the wine’s character.
What’s especially nice is the focus on explaining the influence of terroir—not just tasting wines but understanding what makes each one unique. This adds a layer of appreciation for wine lovers or those keen on learning.
More Great Tours NearbyFood and Extras
While food isn’t included in the standard package, there’s an option to add a gourmet platter of cheese and charcuterie for around $15. This can turn the wine tasting into a more complete experience, especially if you enjoy pairing wines with good food. It’s a nice option if you want to linger a little longer or make the most of your visit.
Considerations and Practical Details
- Duration: The entire experience lasts around 2 hours, which is perfect if you’re looking for a half-day activity.
- Cost: At $76 per person, the price reflects both the guided tour and the tastings. Considering the scenic views and personalized attention, this is a fair value for those interested in wine and nature.
- Language Support: The guide speaks English, Russian, and French, making it accessible for different travelers.
- Group Size: Limited to five people, so you get plenty of attention but should book early to secure your spot.
- Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchair users, people with epilepsy or low fitness, or very young children.
What Visitors Are Saying
The sole review available is glowing: “Très belle découverte du domaine et de 5 vins. La visite en 4×4 à parcourir les différents cépages, découvrir les sols, avec toutes les explications de notre guide, c’était top! Ça change de la simple balade à pied devant le château.” This highlights how the 4×4 adventure adds an extra layer of interest and engagement compared to a typical tasting.
Another comment points out the flexibility of the booking process, with options to reserve and pay later and cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which is perfect for flexible travel plans.
Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is ideal for those who want a scenic, educational, and interactive way to explore Burgundy’s vineyards. If you’re a fan of stunning vistas and enjoy learning about terroir in a relaxed setting, you’ll love the combination of the 4×4 ride and guided wine tasting. It’s also a smart choice if you prefer smaller groups for a more personalized vibe.
However, if you’re looking for an in-depth, leisurely exploration with food pairing included, this might feel a bit brief. Also, travelers with mobility issues or very young children should consider other options, as this tour isn’t suited for wheelchairs or infants.
All in all, it offers a well-rounded snapshot of Burgundy’s wine landscape, blending adventure, scenery, and expert insight into a compact package.
Mercurey: Château de Chamirey and a tasting
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
Since it’s not explicitly designed for children under 1 year and involves a 4×4 ride, it’s best suited for older kids or teenagers who can handle the outdoor vehicle comfortably. The experience focuses on adults and older children interested in wine and scenic views.
Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours before the experience for a full refund, which makes it flexible if your schedule shifts.
How long does the tour last?
The total experience is about 2 hours, including the 4×4 adventure and wine tasting.
Is food included in the package?
No, food isn’t included, but you can purchase a cheese and charcuterie platter for an additional $15 if you wish.
What languages are available during the tour?
The guide offers commentary in English, Russian, and French, ensuring a smooth experience for diverse travelers.
What is the price for this experience?
It’s $76 per person, offering a guided tour of the vineyards plus a tasting of five wines.
Is this experience suitable for people with low fitness?
As it involves a short outdoor drive and tasting, it’s generally manageable for most, but not recommended for those with low fitness or mobility issues.
Can I reserve my spot now and pay later?
Yes, the booking allows you to reserve and pay later, providing flexibility and peace of mind.
In the end, this tour offers a refreshing way to experience Burgundy’s vineyards—combining scenic views, small-group camaraderie, and a focused tasting of some of Château de Chamirey’s best wines. It’s a good pick for travelers who want a short, memorable, and beautiful wine adventure.
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