Pairings between French wines and cheeses, including champagne

A Friendly Look at the French Wine & Cheese Pairing Tour in Paris

If you’re into wine, cheese, or just love exploring French culinary traditions, this Pairings between French wines and cheeses, including champagne tour in Paris might catch your eye. It’s a two-hour, small-group experience that promises not only to introduce you to the basics of tasting wine but also to help you develop your senses—think smell exercises and insightful commentary from a passionate local wine bar owner, Simon.

What really stands out about this tour is its ability to blend education with enjoyment. We especially like how it combines learning about the geography and history of French wine with a hands-on approach—tasting different wines and matching them with cheeses, all in a cozy, intimate setting. Plus, the addition of champagne at the end offers that extra touch of celebration and luxury.

One thing to keep in mind: this is a tasting experience, so if you’re not into wine or cheese, or if you’re lactose intolerant, it might not be the best fit. Also, since it’s a relatively short session—just about two hours—it’s more suited for those looking for a quick but quality taste of the wine and cheese scene in Paris. Still, it’s perfect for travelers who want a meaningful, guided introduction without spending an entire day.

This tour seems best suited for curious travelers who appreciate good wine and cheese, enjoy learning in an informal setting, and want to enjoy a taste of Parisian culture without a large group or overly commercial experience.

Key Points

• Expert-led Experience: The tour is guided by Simon, a passionate Parisian wine bar owner who shares his knowledge on wine, cheese, and their history.
• Sensory Exercises: You’ll develop your sense of smell by comparing wines to perfume samples—fun and surprisingly helpful.
• Diverse Tasting: Enjoy 2 glasses of white, 2 of red, and a final glass of champagne, each paired with different cheeses.
• Educational Content: Learn the basics of wine tasting—appreciating color, aroma, and taste—plus how climate and geography influence flavor.
• Private & Intimate: The experience is private, meaning your group gets personalized attention without large crowds.
• Value for the Price: At around $71 per person, it offers a focused, quality introduction to French wine and cheese culture.

A Deep Dive Into the Experience

When you arrive at the meeting point at 33 Rue de Crussol, you’re stepping into a cozy Parisian wine bar, setting a relaxed tone for the next two hours. Simon, the owner, kicks things off with a friendly introduction, giving a quick overview of the world of wine—covering everything from the influence of grape varieties to how different regions produce distinctive flavors. It’s a nice refresher, especially if you’re a novice or just want to brush up on your wine knowledge.

What makes this tour particularly enjoyable is how it balances education with fun. Simon guides you through the art of wine tasting—starting with visual inspection, noticing the color and clarity of each glass. Then comes the aroma, which Simon encourages you to analyze deeply, sometimes using perfume samples to help sharpen your sense of smell. This part is surprisingly engaging, and it’s easy to underestimate how much aroma contributes to how we perceive taste.

Throughout the experience, you’re tasting a carefully curated lineup: white and red wines, culminating in a glass of bubbly Champagne. Each wine is paired with a different cheese, which makes the tasting more than just about the liquids—it’s a true sensory journey. The pairing aspect highlights how certain cheeses complement specific wines, enhancing flavors and textures. Simon’s guidance makes it clear that selecting the right pairing is an art, not just a matter of preference.

The reviews echo how much people appreciate the depth of Simon’s knowledge and his passion for sharing it. One reviewer, Jeff, said, “We loved the informative wine discussion…his depth of knowledge and passion for wine, cheese, history and politics concerning the development of wine was informative and entertaining.” That’s a good sign that this isn’t just a superficial tasting, but a meaningful, engaging experience.

Another highlight is the final glass of Champagne, which rounds off the tasting with a touch of celebration. It’s a good way to finish, leaving you with a sense of French luxury and sophistication, but in a relaxed, approachable setting. Since the activity is private, you’ll have plenty of opportunity to ask questions and get personalized insights from Simon.

In terms of logistics, the tour is booked on average 8 days in advance, and at $71.24 per person, it’s reasonably priced considering the quality of the experience and the intimate, educational setting. It’s also worth noting that most travelers can participate, but minors under 18 are not allowed, and those with lactose intolerance might want to skip, as cheese is involved.

Overall, this experience offers a taste of Parisian wine culture with a focus on sensory development and pairing knowledge—perfect for those wanting a quick but genuine introduction without the formality of a big tour or the expense of a full wine tasting class.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal if you’re curious about French wines and cheeses, want a guided, personalized lesson, and enjoy a relaxed, social atmosphere. It’s particularly well-suited for wine novices or those wanting to refresh their tasting skills without committing to a lengthy wine tour. If you’re a foodie with an interest in pairing, you’ll find that this tour offers practical tips you can use in Paris restaurants or at home.

Travelers who appreciate expert guidance and sensory exercises will find it especially rewarding. And if you’re traveling with someone who’s a wine enthusiast but prefers a more casual, intimate setting, this tour hits the right note. It’s also a nice, low-pressure way to be introduced to French wine culture without the more commercial or tourist-heavy experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, minors under 18 are not permitted, as alcohol consumption is involved.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, giving you enough time to enjoy and learn without feeling rushed.

What’s included in the price?
You’ll taste 2 glasses of white wine, 2 glasses of red wine, and a glass of Champagne, each paired with different cheeses. The guide provides explanations and sensory exercises.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this is a private experience, so only your group participates, allowing for a more personalized discussion.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at 33 Rue de Crussol in Paris, conveniently near public transportation.

Is it worth the price?
Given the personalized guidance, quality of wines, and educational value, most would find it a good deal, especially compared to larger group tastings or classes.

What if I don’t know much about wine?
That’s perfectly fine. The tour is designed for all levels, from complete beginners to those wanting to hone their senses.

Final Thoughts

This Parisian wine and cheese pairing tour offers a relaxed, educational, and sensory-rich experience that’s perfect for travelers looking to add a little sophistication to their trip. It’s a genuinely approachable way to learn about French wine culture, with the added bonus of developing your smelling and tasting skills. The personal touch from Simon makes it stand out from more generic tastings, and the inclusion of Champagne adds a celebratory end to the session.

If you’re someone who enjoys learning while tasting and appreciates insight into how wine and cheese are connected culturally and geographically, you’ll likely find this experience rewarding. It’s especially suited for curious travelers who want a taste of Paris that’s both fun and informative—without feeling like a formal class.

While it won’t replace a full wine course, it’s a lovely introduction and a memorable way to spend a couple of hours in the City of Light. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with a small group, this tour could become one of your favorite Parisian moments—delivering both knowledge and enjoyment in equal measure.